Debbie Irwin and her great grandfather Eustace P. Ziegler
About
A passion for art has always been an integral part of Debbie Irwin’s persona, likely passed down from her great grandfather and world famous Pacific Northwest artist Eustace P. Ziegler whose works fill the archives at the Seattle Art Museum, the Frye Art Museum and the Anchorage Museum.
This passion would surface sporadically during her early schooling and initial working years but it always subsided as growing children, business ventures and a career forced it to the backseat.
But as the 21st century gained traction the children began their lives, a demanding career was not as critical and art once again took the forefront inspired by a Christmas gift to attend a watercolor course with Kay Barnes. Further studies with Ann Breckon added fuel to her fervor and soon framed pieces began to appear on the walls at home, eventually migrating to relatives and close friends.
In 2018 she left the hustle and bustle of the Greater Seattle area for the scenic, less hectic high desert of Bend, Oregon. She quickly became an enthusiastic member of the Broken Top Artists Group and began hanging works in local venues such as St. Charles Hospital. She continues studying with artists such as Cindy Briggs and Sarah B. Hansen while expanding her commissions as her reputation grows. The scenic inspiration of the Deschutes River in the Bend area, the beauty of the Cascade mountains and their surrounding forests, as well as her love of flora form the core of her portfolio.
