Hi, I’m Debbie Viola and am happy you stopped by.  I always wanted to learn how to paint, but never had the opportunity.  I picked up a paintbrush for the first time at age 40, and haven’t put it down since. What started out as a hobby led me down a path that completely changed my life.  I am so blessed that I had the courage to leave my successful corporate career after witnessing the September 11, 2001 attacks from my New York City office window.  It was lots of hard work, and still is, but I managed to turn my new hobby into a thriving, award-winning decorative arts studio.  Plaster and decorative wall finishes, refinished cabinetry and furniture, fine abstract art, murals, epoxy countertops and art pieces are just some of the multi-faceted creative services I offer.  Many interior designers commission me to create custom art for their clients.  My intuitive paintings are a natural extension of being a fine finish painter and surface designer for the past 20 years.  

But what really lights me up the most is teaching others how to paint. I love being able to share my skills so that others can find the same comfort and joy that painting has brought me all these years.   I’ve taught thousands of locals, ages 4-80, how to paint and I’m thrilled that I am able to help creatives all over the globe by teaching virtually.  Some of my students would joke that I’m cheaper than therapy, and now there is science to back up the therapeutic effects painting has.  Many people are hesitant to try because they can’t draw a stick figure.  I always reassure them that you don’t need to know how to draw.  Remember, it’s never too late, and in this tumultuous world we live in, it’s important to indulge in a hobby to give your brain a mental reset.  Art has completely transformed my life, and nothing gives me greater satisfaction than knowing I’ve helped transform yours.  Our elderly moms live with us, and nothing relieves my stress faster than being in front of a blank canvas for ten minutes, with soft music in the background.  

When I’m not painting, I’m hanging out with my amazing husband (can you believe we met when I was 3??!!!), two great kids and four wonderful grandchildren.