Author: alyssa

  • Letting Go

    Letting Go

    “Letting Go”
    Colored pencil
    8.5″ x 11″
    Alyssa Deabenderfer
    2023

    Woman with a serious and somewhat apathetic expression, but there are some subtleties in her facial features that add to the overall mood of the piece. In particular, the woman’s intense stare draws the viewer in, creating a sense of intimacy and connection. Her eyes are rendered in a way that suggests deep contemplation and a hint of sadness, adding a layer of emotional depth to the piece. The woman’s lips, while not a prominent feature, are also noteworthy for their subtle, almost imperceptible curve. This small detail adds to the sense of detachment and resignation conveyed by the overall composition.


  • Reflecting On The Past Year: A Gift To Myself

    Reflecting On The Past Year: A Gift To Myself

    As I reflect on the past year, I can’t help but feel grateful for making it through the struggles and hardships. The year was filled with unexpected challenges, from personal to professional, and there were times when it felt like I wouldn’t make it through.

    But here I am, still standing, still creating, and still pursuing my passion for art. And as a gift to myself for all the hard work and perseverance, I decided to invest in something that will help me capture my art even better.

    I have always been passionate about visual arts, whether it be drawing, painting, or photography. Capturing moments and expressions through a lens has always fascinated me, but my previous camera was outdated and limited in its capabilities. I had to make do with what I had, which meant missing out on some opportunities to showcase my work in the best possible way.

    I can finally capture my art the way I see it, and share it with the world in a way that I could only dream of before. It feels like a new beginning, a fresh start, and a symbol of hope for what’s to come.

    Of course, it won’t solve all my problems, but it’s a reminder that even in the midst of struggles, there is always a light at the end of the tunnel. It’s a reminder to invest in myself, to believe in my abilities, and to keep moving forward.

    As I look back on the past year, I can’t help but feel proud of myself for pushing through the tough times. I am excited to see what the future holds for my art.

    To anyone else who has faced struggles in the past year, I encourage you to find a way to invest in yourself and your passions. It doesn’t have to be a big or expensive gesture, but something that reminds you of your worth and potential. You never know, it might just be the thing that helps you push through the challenges and come out stronger on the other side.

    Best regards,

    ~Lyssa

    [featured image is an ai generated image I came up with]


  • Parrot-Fish Man

    Parrot-Fish Man

    Parrot-Fish Man
    Acrylic on stretched canvas
    2023
    By Alyssa Deabenderfer

    “Parrot-fish Man” is a stunning work of art that goes beyond its striking physical appearance to explore deeper themes of beauty, diversity, and environmentalism.

    Parrot fish are known for their vivid and vibrant colors, which can range from bright greens and blues to deep reds and purples. Their distinctive beak-like mouths and colorful scales make them a popular subject for artists and photographers alike.

    In this painting, the parrot fish is depicted in all its colorful glory, with the bright blues and greens of its scales creating a sense of movement and fluidity. The use of texture and shading helps to bring the appearance to life, making it appear almost three-dimensional.

    But the symbolism of the parrot fish goes beyond its physical appearance. In many cultures, fish are seen as symbols of prosperity, abundance, and transformation. They are also associated with the element of water, which is often seen as a symbol of emotions, intuition, and the subconscious.

    In the context of environmentalism, parrot fish are important indicators of the health of coral reefs. As herbivores, they play a crucial role in maintaining the delicate balance of the ecosystem by keeping algae levels in check. They also contribute to the creation of sand by breaking down coral and other organic matter.

    Through her painting of “Parrot-Fish Man”, Deabenderfer invites us to appreciate the beauty and diversity of the natural world, while also highlighting the importance of conservation and environmental awareness. By looking beyond the surface-level impact of the fish’s colorful appearance, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the complex and interconnected nature of the ecosystems that surround us.



    Prints available here


  • Sunflower In A Vase

    Sunflower In A Vase

    “Sunflower In A Vase”
    Pencil on Paper
    Alyssa Deabenderfer
    2023

    “Sunflower in a Vase” by Alyssa Deabenderfer features a single sunflower that dominates the drawing with its large, round shape. The sunflower is rendered in a stylized way, with thick, bold lines that give it a sense of weight and presence.

    This stylization is reminiscent of the work of Vincent Van Gogh, who was famous for his own series of sunflower paintings. Van Gogh’s sunflowers are known for their bold, bright colors and thick, textured brushstrokes. While Deabenderfer’s piece is done in graphite and paper, the influence of Van Gogh can still be seen in the bold lines and stylized shapes of the sunflower.

    In Van Gogh’s paintings, the sunflowers are often arranged in a vase, much like the one in Deabenderfer’s piece. The vase in “Sunflower in a Vase” is simple and understated, allowing the sunflower to be the focal point of the painting.

    Overall, “Sunflower in a Vase” is a beautiful homage to the work of Vincent Van Gogh, with its stylized sunflower and simple vase. The use of bold lines and a scratching appearance give the piece a sense of depth and texture, making it a stunning example of Deabenderfer’s skill as an artist.


  • Male Portrait 2023

    Male Portrait 2023

    “Male Portrait 2023”
    Pencil and Paper
    Alyssa Deabenderfer
    2023

    “Male Portrait 2023” by Alyssa Deabenderfer is a stunning pencil drawing that captures the essence of a male subject with striking detail and nuance. The portrait is executed in a realistic style, with great attention paid to the subject’s features and expression.

    One of the most striking elements of the portrait is the subject’s closed mouth. This small detail adds a sense of mystery and introspection to the portrait, as if the subject is deep in thought or contemplation. The closed mouth also draws the viewer’s attention to the subject’s other features, such as the penetrating eyes and the slight facial hair.

    Speaking of the facial hair, the subject’s stubble is another noteworthy element of the portrait. The rough, scratching detail of the stubble gives it a sense of texture and movement, adding to the realism of the drawing. The play of light and shadow on the stubble is also expertly executed, creating a sense of depth and dimensionality.

    The subject’s expression is overall one of quiet introspection. The closed mouth, combined with the slight furrow of the brow, gives the portrait a sense of gravity and seriousness. The eyes are also expertly shaded, conveying a sense of depth and intensity that draws the viewer in.


  • Self Reflection With Still Life

    Self Reflection With Still Life

    Self-Reflection with Still Life: Alyssa Deabenderfer’s Photography

    Alyssa Deabenderfer’s artistic talents extend beyond drawing and painting. Her passion for self-reflection and still life is also captured through her photography. In her photographs, Alyssa beautifully captures the everyday objects around her, turning them into art.

    Alyssa’s photographs are often characterized by their simplicity, clean lines, and focus on the beauty of everyday objects. She uses natural lighting to highlight the textures and details of her subjects, creating a sense of depth and realism in her images. Her photographs of household items such as vases, glasses, and books are a testament to her keen eye for detail and her ability to transform mundane objects into art.

    One notable aspect of Alyssa’s photography is her use of color. She often plays with contrasting colors, creating striking and visually captivating images. Her use of color is not only visually pleasing but also creates an emotional connection with the viewer, inviting them to engage with the objects in the photograph.

    Another defining feature of Alyssa’s photography is her use of composition. Her photographs are carefully composed, balancing negative space and using the rule of thirds to create visual interest. She often frames her subjects in a way that draws the viewer’s eye to a specific detail or area of the photograph, creating a sense of movement and depth.

    In addition to her skillful use of composition and color, Alyssa’s photography also highlights her ability to capture emotion and mood in her images. Her photographs are often intimate and personal, reflecting her own self-reflection and inner world.

    Overall, Alyssa Deabenderfer’s photography is a beautiful representation of her artistic style and her passion for self-reflection and still life. Her use of natural lighting, color, and composition creates stunning images that transform everyday objects into works of art. Her photographs invite us to look closer at the world around us and appreciate the beauty that exists in the simple things.

    “Stressful Day” Alyssa Deabenderfer. 2022.
    “Floating In The Tub After A Long Day” Alyssa Deabenderfer 2022.
    “I Think I’ve Had Enough” Alyssa Deabenderfer 2022.
    “Last Piece of Hope” Alyssa Deabenderferf 2022.