The abstract work of Debbie Bzdyl transforms spaces and transports us to colorful new realms.
What do you see when you gaze into the swirling colors on each canvas Debbie Bzdyl paints? A master of light and shadow, the award-winning abstract artist works in acrylic and mixed media, and her nebulous forms are vibrant in color, conjuring visions of mystery and magic. If it looks familiar, it may not be something from last night’s dream—Bzdyl’s work can be found in private and public collections throughout the Upstate and all across the United States.
“Most of my paintings are inspired by the themes of transformation, rebirth, and renewal,” says Bzdyl. “From the wonder and mystery of our universe to our own personal journeys as we grow, change, and reinvent ourselves, these are the things that fill me with awe and keep me coming back to the canvas. I’m inspired by how cultures, humankind, and the universe are always in a state of flux, of becoming something new.”
Bringing the Abstract to Light
Bzdyl grew up in rural Central, South Carolina, about a half mile from her grandmother’s dairy farm, where she would drink ice-cold milk from a tin cup and draw on the walls with crayons. Even as the Clemson grad pursued an accomplished career in graphic design, fine art remained her greatest passion and priority—Bzdyl continued to paint and take art classes over the years, eventually retiring her design business to focus on painting full-time.
“I’ve always had a fascination and a feeling of connection with ancient cultures and the cosmos,” reflects Bzdyl. “I’ve always felt that I was an ‘old soul’—working with themes that touch on these subjects came naturally.”
Whether in her early representational work or her later abstracts, Bzdyl’s technique evolved through her attraction to the feeling of light. The result? Artwork with a luminescent quality that draws you in and fuels the imagination. “Albert Einstein once said, ‘Never cease to stand like curious children before the Great Mystery into which we were born,’” laughs Bzdyl. “[And that informs] my primary goal: to visually capture the mysterious, the intangible, the emotions and concepts beyond what we can observe in everyday life.”
And in Bzdyl’s studio, there are no ordinary days—even she admits to never knowing what might unfold once she picks up the brush. “When I start a painting, I usually have no idea what it will be! I usually have a general color scheme in mind and maybe a vague idea of what I’m after. I may even have a title in mind. But after that, everything is wide open—and the end result is almost always different from what I first imagined it would be, and that’s part of the fun,” she admits. “I’m an intuitive painter. I let the strokes on the canvas guide me.”
Like many artists, experiencing her work through the eyes of those who love it can be the most rewarding part of the job. “People often tell me my work has a spiritual or meditative quality that speaks to them, and draws them in. Several of my collectors have told me that my pieces are the first abstracts they have ever purchased,” says Bzdyl.
“If someone loves my art enough to want it in their home, it means that my art has touched them in some way. I love that something I have created will be a beautiful part of their lives. And really, that’s my wish: that my art will touch people in a deeply emotional way, encourage them to revisit the myths and mysteries of our universe, and inspire them to explore their own journey through life.”
For many homeowners, choosing, curating, and hanging art can be stressful—and Bzdyl wants future collectors of all ages and interests to know that it doesn’t have to be. After all, this is your home, not a gallery. Allow the walls to reflect that unique level of personalization. “Go with your gut—your first impression. If you are immediately drawn to a piece and have that ‘Oh, wow!’ moment, it is probably right for you,” is Bzdyl’s advice.
“Pick work that matches the vibe of your space and reflects your style and personality. For instance, something with a calming vibe could work in the bedroom. A big, bold piece that is a conversation-starter and really makes a statement would be good for the living area. Pick what you love, what draws you in,” she insists. “Original art can make a big difference to your home. It sets a tone for the space that is unique to you.”
Photography by Eli Warren
