NSB Regional Library - Deborah Elmquist

Canning Jars and Apricots, 1999 Oil on panel

Cherries and Brass, 1999 Oil on panel

Deborah Elmquist
Port Orange, Fla.
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Deborah Elmquist is an experienced and award-winning classical-realism, contemporary realist, fine arts oil painter. She received a fine arts degree from Orlando college, a bachelor’s degree from the University of South Florida, a master’s degree from Rollins College, and a doctorate from the University of Florida. 

Following in the traditions of Rembrandt and Vermeer, her use of transparent and semi-transparent glazes allows light to pass through the painted objects on the canvas, producing a luminocity and depth not possible with the direct, opaque method. She paints in the Sfumato and Chiaroscuro styles of the Old Masters. Although Elmquist specializes in the still life, she also draws and paints the figure. 

Her works are displayed in private collections and in the permanent collection of the Museum of Arts & Science in Daytona Beach. 

“The focus of my work is strong light and shadow shapes that create drama for the viewer. My backgrounds are varied in tone and detail, with attention to foreground design and the use of negative space. I work to convey a special mood, thought or feeling related to the subject matter of the painting. Ultimately, my goal is to create a painting that is meaningful to the viewer and communicates what inspires me to paint.” – Deborah Elmquist