Interview
Deb Huff
Deb Huff a digital artist creating illustrative works inspired by the history and connections held within neighbourhoods; their buildings, and the stories they've gathered over time. Her work focusses on heritage buildings and neighbourhood stories and shared histories. Deb’s work seeks to uncover and celebrate the character of places that are the backdrop to our lives and the streets we walk everyday. Her digital and print-based works have been exhibited in Perth and Melbourne in large-scale formats and her work is held in several collections across Asia Pacific and internationally.
What is your background and how did you start your journey in the art world?
“I’ve lived in a few different cities and have always connected with the idea that we collect stories as we go through life, and that the places we live really contribute to that. The things we do, the people we meet, the local coffee spots and wine bars we frequent – these all shape our experiences. I’ve always been fascinated by history, particularly the stories held within heritage buildings. I love the idea of ‘if these walls could talk’ - that every structure holds a collection of moments, from grand events to everyday life. History doesn’t have to be big or boring; it’s made up of people, their stories, and the ordinary moments that make a place what it is. I started illustrating when I moved to Perth, Western Australia, in 2020, during COVID as a way to learn about my new city and neighborhood. As I shared my work, it resonated with people who had their own connections to these buildings, and that’s when I realized the power of art in preserving and celebrating history.”
What inspires you?
“I’m inspired by the idea that history isn’t just from ‘back in the days of black and white’ - it’s also last month, or yesterday. It’s the everyday moments and stories that don’t usually make it onto a heritage plaque outside a building. I love digging into those hidden details, the stuff that people walk past without a second thought, and bringing it to the forefront through my art. The layers of a place’s history - both the well-known and the overlooked - really drive me to create.”
What themes do you pursue? Is there an underlying message in your work?
“My work focuses a lot on urban heritage and adaptive reuse - how old, often overlooked buildings are repurposed and given new life. It’s about celebrating history while embracing change. At its core, I want to show how these buildings are more than just bricks and mortar - they hold stories, memories, and a sense of place. The underlying message is one of connection: between past and present, between people and their surroundings.”
How would you describe your work?
“I draw digitally, and my work has been displayed in both print and digital formats, exhibited indoors and outdoors. My style is character-heavy and a bit wonky - it’s not about creating a perfect replica of a building, but about capturing its personality, heritage features, and the quirks that make it special. I focus on the elements that give a place its soul rather than just its appearance. It’s about telling the story of a building, not just showing what it looks like.”
Which artists influence you most?
“I really enjoy the work of artists who celebrate architecture and urban spaces in unique ways. Lydia Wood’s pub project, for example, captures the charm of heritage buildings beautifully. I also appreciate Stephen Wiltshire’s intricate cityscapes that highlight the complexity of urban environments, and James Gulliver Hancock’s playful approach to drawing buildings from memory. Their focus on storytelling and a sense of place resonates with me, as I also aim to bring out the personality and history of the buildings I illustrate.”
“The underlying message is one of connection: between past and present, between people and their surroundings.”
What is your creative process like?
“My process begins with a lot of research. I spend time online, digging through state library archives, and talking to locals and the people who work in these buildings. Their stories really help me understand the layers of history a place holds. Once I’ve gathered all that information, I start sketching out ideas, focusing on the details that give the building its unique character. All of my work is in black and white, which helps me highlight the personality and heritage features without distraction. It’s about distilling a place’s story into something simple but powerful.”
What is an artist’s role in society and how do you see that evolving?
“I think artists play a crucial role in reflecting and shaping the way we see the world. For me, it’s about creating a dialogue between the past and present, especially when it comes to our built environment. I love the idea that my work might connect people who aren’t necessarily into history or heritage with the past. When you have a favorite bar or restaurant, and you learn about its history, then weave in your own experiences, it feels different - it becomes a real, modern connection to history. As the world becomes more fast-paced, I see artists helping people slow down, reflect, and connect to their surroundings and the stories behind them.”
Have you had any noteworthy exhibitions you'd like to share?
“Earlier this year, I had a solo exhibition in partnership with Temp Gallery and Activate Perth, titled Building Nostalgia. It featured over 30 pieces showcasing buildings and neighborhoods in Perth and Melbourne, including both digital prints and, for the first time, embroidered pieces. Coming up, I have some outdoor lightbox works in a show in New South Wales, which I’m really excited about. I’d love to expand this area of my work because bringing art out of the gallery and into the built environment and public spaces is something I really value - it connects more directly with people as part of their everyday lives.”
Website: debhuff.com
Instagram: @debhuff.illustration
