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Debbie Bonello graduated as an art teacher and for the last couple of years has dedicated more of herself to painting and experimenting with different genres; from portraits to landscapes, some of which are done en plein air. Debbie Bonello is a mother of two boys, Noah and Isaac.
When and how did you get started?
I started at a very young age observing my dad, who is a stone sculptor, doing designs for his line of work which I use to observe constantly. You could always find me drawing on the kitchen table next to my mum cooking.
What genre do you consider your work to be?
I am currently exploring different genres from portraits to landscapes and the occasional abstract, however I do love painting seascapes the most, while injecting whatever mood I am in.
Describe your work in 10 words or less.
Bold, expressive, colourful, textured.
Where was your first exhibition held?
My first solo is currently being held at Palazzo de Piro. I previously took part in collective exhibitions.
Do you have a favourite from among your own artworks? If so, why?
I have many favourites since each painting has a bit of me preserved in it freezing the time I painted it, however if I had to pick one it will be Ferragosto which was executed in Sicily after going to the beach celebrating this holiday.
What are you working on at the moment?
I am working on a large canvas aiming at capturing the cold and wet landscape. Since the weather is changing, my colours and moods change too, so I go with the flow.
Which artist’s work are you most inspired by?
Locally I admire many artists and I try to keep up with ongoing exhibitions since through observing others work I get inspired to paint myself. On the international scene I love Roos Schuring and Aine Divine’s work which seem effortlessly executed but I know it is easier said than done and such results take lots of practice.
If you weren’t an artist, what would you be?
A baker. I love baking cakes and cookies but the best part is decorating them.
What is the epitome of happiness for you?
Being healthy and surrounded by family and friends who love and support me.
What do you love about Malta?
I love the size of it and getting to wherever you want relatively quickly unless stuck in traffic.
What do you hate about Malta?
Traffic and the forever receding countryside.
Favourite colour and what it means to you?
This is a very tricky question since this depends directly on whatever mood I am in so today it might be blue and tomorrow it might be orange depending on how I am feeling or going through.
What is your favourite indulgence?
Without a doubt Gin and Tonic.
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