Art Piece: “Red Rocks and Yellow Sand”
The Beginning of a Journey
Born and raised in Cape Town, Debbi Morkel’s passion for art began with a childlike fascination for drawing and painting, which persisted into adulthood. In 2008, Morkel made a bold decision to relocate to the remote Karoo town of Fraserburg, driven by a desire to fully immerse herself in her creative pursuits.
Morkel’s formal training in art began at the Michaelis School of Fine Art, where she earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the University of Cape Town in 2007. Morkel’s artistic style can be described as highly realistic and meticulously detailed, requiring a significant investment of time, effort, intense concentration and dedication.
Her inspiration is deeply rooted in her environment, particularly the unique character of Fraserburg, the captivating Karoo landscapes, and the interplay between nature and human-made structures. She primarily works with oil paints on canvas, favouring earthy tones and shades of blue applied with a delicate finesse using fine brushes.
Through her paintings, Morkel invites viewers to explore the tranquillity and isolation of the Karoo, offering a glimpse into the life of an artist. Her works seldom feature human figures but incorporate relatable elements, creating immersive environments that allow for personal interpretation.
Morkel’s work has garnered widespread acclaim through private sales and group shows. Rather than actively seeking awards or recognition, she prefers to focus on the pure joy of creating art.
As long as she can continue painting and engaging with her work, she considers herself a fulfilled artist.
View more of Debbi’s world of art and explore her collection here.
