Debra Berpier is an artist who hails from Victoria, Canada. Her artistic muse comes from the natural elements that surround her, and she transforms organic materials such as clay, shells and driftwood into whimsical sculptures. Debra’s art reflects a blend of people and natural features that signify the spirits of nature. Her love and admiration for the environment are evident in her work, as she never considers the driftwood as a blank canvas. Rather, each piece has a unique narrative shaped by the forces of wind and water. Debra’s aim is to showcase these features by molding familiar shapes, such as animals and faces, by extending or shortening existing curves and contours.
Debra’s artistic works go beyond just wood as she enjoys incorporating shells, clay, stones, and other natural materials she finds to add more depth and character to her figurines.
She holds a great love for the rural areas, kids, and creatures – all of which are close to her heart. With her artistic talent, she molds stunning sculptures using raw materials like clay, shells, and driftwood, that blend human and natural elements, and capture the very soul of nature. Each of her creations is a true masterpiece, exuding the magnificent essence of nature.
Across various societies, shells have been embraced as symbols of fertility, evoking a specific connection. These charms are a contemporary take on prehistoric Venus figurines made of stone and encourage peaceful reflection. The beautifully framed photographs by Berpier capture this essence perfectly.
When Debra was a kid, she had this great fascination with the ocean and nature. And now, as an adult, she is thankful that she has a job that allows her to share her love for these things with others. Deep down, her inner child is still captivated by the diverse range of shapes that can be found in wood, the glittering reflection of sun on water, the velvety texture of grey stones, and the pungent aroma of seaweed. For Debra, happiness comes from simple things and she wants to spread this bliss by sharing her experiences with others.
Our connection to nature is crucial for our survival, yet we often overlook it. We must remember that we are not the only species on this planet and take time to appreciate the beauty around us. Have you ever stopped to admire the intricate details of a tree or listened to the sounds it makes? Do you notice the little weeds and vines growing around you or the way light and shadows dance on leaves? Let’s take a moment to connect with nature and appreciate its wonders.
Living in a city doesn’t mean you can’t find green spaces. You might come across some gardens that aren’t in the best condition, with weeds and untended plants. But taking a moment to appreciate the fact that there are still living things around you will give you a sense of connection to nature. Keep in mind that harming nature will only end up harming yourself in the long run.