Deborah Ewert's Bulldogs Unleashed Q+A

The summer of 2011 may be remembered for many reasons, but one will be , the public art display of 25 larger-than-life bulldogs that has captured the interest and imagination of many local residents. Here is an interview with Deborah Ewert of Aurora, one of a series with the artists whose creativity have made the exhibit a success since the 30-inch-high by 50-inch-long frames went on display in June.

Her creations, Pieces of Batavia and Pawprints of Batavia, are two of 14 decorated bulldogs that will be auctioned off Saturday, Sept. 10, at the Fox Valley Country Club, 2500 N. River Rd. (Route 25), North Aurora.

Batavia Patch: What is the name of your bulldog and where can we see it?

Deborah Ewert: I have two bulldogs. Pieces of Batavia is on the southwest corner of Wilson and Water streets, by the library steps. Pawprints of Batavia is on the southeast corner of Wilson Street and Shumway Avenue.

Batavia Patch: Who are your sponsors?

Ewert: My sponsor for Pieces is Batavia Mother's Club Foundation and, for Pawprints, my sponsors are John and Lynn Elam.

Batavia Patch: What was your inspiration for them?

Ewert: My inspiration came from the architecture, history and people of Batavia. I took pictures of things that I think are unique to Batavia and people who make Batavia unique. I received my first bulldog on April 8, and completed both of them by May 30. But, I had been taking photographs weeks before that. So I'd say it took me a little over two months to complete them. I decoupaged black and white photocopies of my photographs onto the bulldogs. On Pieces of Batavia, I then used acrylic color washes over the photos. On Pawprints, I left the photos black and white and painted around them with acrylic paint.

Batavia Patch: How long you have been an artist?

Ewert: I have been an artist all my life. Creating things has always been a big part of who I am.

Batavia Patch: What is your inspiration for your art?

Ewert: Most of my inspiration comes from the people whom I've met throughout my life. I try to capture the essence of certain people and how I perceive them, in my work.

Batavia Patch: What media do you usually use?

Ewert: I have a BFA from Southern Illinois University, specializing in painting. Although, I don't paint much anymore. I've worked in fibers, mostly sewing, quilting and weaving. Currently, and for about the past seven years, I've been a potter. I have a home studio and my own kiln. I have recently started working with cement. And I do mosaics. But because art is not my full time job, I sell my work at garden fairs and art shows whenever I get a chance and have a finished piece of work.