Debra Sutton, who is originally from the Blue Mountains, has been in the Manning Valley for over 20 years.

Debra said she loves the idea of using her art to contribute something back to others.

She has contributed art to hospitals in the United States, Doctors Without Borders and the Steve Irwin memorial at the Australian Zoo. 

“I strongly believe that a spirit of generosity comes back to you in ways you never expect,” she said. 

“Good fortune isn't necessarily about financial gain – the spirit of giving is emotionally nourishing for the giver and the receiver. I've always loved that idea of paying it forward.” 

Debra creates contemporary art which she described as ”slightly abstracted and from the imagination”.

“I love using botanical forms and organic shapes in my work and am constantly inspired by nature,” she said. 

“I love to push colour to its limits and challenge what people think nature should look like.

“When you paint from your imagination you get to make and break the rules, which is probably why I'm inspired by the Fauvist movement and their use of simplified forms and saturated colours.” 

Debra donated an artwork called “Bloom Where You Are Planted” to Art for Epilepsy. 

The artwork is described with a paragraph by Debra on the auction website. 

“We may not be who or where we wish, but it is up to us to make the best of it. To shine and grow through our diversity. To ‘bloom’ where we are planted,” she wrote. 

Debra said Art for Epilepsy is a “great cause”  as epilepsy is something many people live with. 

“I was excited to be asked to help raise funds to further epilepsy research and treatment options and to bring more awareness to such a great cause,” she said. 

Cheif Executive Officer of Epilepsy Action Carol Ireland said: “Epilepsy is the world’s most common serious brain condition, however, community awareness and understanding of the condition remains frustratingly low. Our aim is to raise awareness of the impact of this often debilitating condition, and to support people living with epilepsy to lead optimal lives.”

“Art for Epilepsy plays an important role in helping us to raise enough funds to do that effectively,” said Carol.

“We have such an incredible collection of artworks up for auction this year by some amazingly talented artists. We really encourage the community to jump online and get involved in this unique campaign.” 

Debra said she is constantly exploring new practises and mediums out of a love for learning. 

“I am currently venturing into more abstracted work and resin art so there will be some exciting new work on the horizon which I can't wait to share with everyone.” 

People can find and bid on Debra’s artwork and others at www.ArtForEpilepsy.com.au