Interview
Deborah Ruggieri
"A diva reinvents herself again and again - a phoenix transforms itself throughout its life. art is the alchemy that combines the two." It’s Deborah’s artist footprint - its the artistic expression of her life. Deborah has her Masters Degree in Art History, Cultural and Political Studies. She leads teams of up to 70 employees across various projects and sectors, including business and science/NGOs. Throughout her education, she skillfully balanced her studies in art history with political and cultural science at Humboldt University in Berlin. Her career is as extraordinary as her artwork, showcasing boundless thirst for knowledge and development. Today, she not only creates breathtaking works on canvas but also thrives in the business! She truly excels at the art of creative multitasking! She operates an art studio since 2018 within an art community in Berlin and works professionally as an artist and executive coach and trainer, focusing on modern leadership, particularly for women in science, politics, business, and NGOs, all while advancing her career as a professional artist.
This year, she received her ECA Certification in Venice. Her recent exhibitions include: Gaia exhibition, with Kristina Rummelsburg, coaching ETAGE, Berlin (2015), Gaia 2.0. exhibition with Kristina Rummelsburg, coaching ETAGE, Berlin (2017), exhibition at Zeit sprung GMBH, Berlin (2019), online exhibition in 2022, solo exhibition Artstalker, Berlin (2023) and solo exhibition Galerie Seelenkuss, Berlin in 2024. She is also officially invited to Personal Structures, ECC, side event Biennale in 2026.
What is your background and how did you start your journey in the art world?
“Art has always accompanied me; it is the common thread that connects us in my family history. My mother awakened the enthusiasm and love for the old masters in us when we were children. Even as a young girl, I stood for hours in front of paintings by Hieronymus Bosch, Claude Monet, Frida Kahlo and many more and immersed myself in the impressive worlds of color. Discussions about art, politics and society took place both at the dinner table and in the museums and galleries of the world. This educational influence has also manifested itself professionally within the family. My brother is also an artist and a gifted musician. His medium is the guitar. My sister photographs and writes, her craft is communication, her art is expression - conveying messages. My father came to Germany from Italy in the 1960s and through his culinary artistry he became a star restaurant owner in Braunschweig, gaining fame far beyond the country's borders. Creating art, even as a child I have been painting since I could hold a pen, my room at home wasn't just a room, it was a completely covered with work of art. My lecture notes at university were more sketches than text - in art I am in my world, it has always accompanied me in all areas of life. My stages in life are as colorful as my pictures and at the same time have a connecting thread; my caption is: knowledge - transformation - communication.”
What inspires you?
“Individuals who are profound intellectual thinkers infused with passion and enthusiasm for their work have the ability to challenge existing norms. As a scientist with a background in the history of science, I recognize the exclusion of women, BiPoC individuals, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community, who have often been marginalized in terms of representation and recognized knowledge. It takes a unique power and unwavering dedication to pursue this life, which deeply impresses me. I am a great admirer of Lee Krasner, for example, who gained recognition before her marriage. I find inspiration in those who exhibit a steadfast commitment to their work. Being thirsty for knowledge is my common thread - even in my youth I devoured books and studied everything that stimulated deeper research. For years I was busy with my friends outside of school in an experimental field between painting, sculpting, performing and making music; we created our own world. The process of finding identity was just as artificial. I was, among other things, hippie, punk, kindergarten teacher, manager, activist and works council chairwoman. To this day, pigeonholes are foreign to me and my choice of subject also fit this paradigm very well. At the wonderful Humboldt University in Berlin, I studied cultural and political science as well as art history for a master's degree and then published on the topics of equality. Always with the aim of stimulating transformation through gaining knowledge. This is the force which drives me.”
What themes do you pursue? Is there an underlying message in your work?
“I am the creative force behind the concept of DIVA PHOENIX ART. This artistic expression serves as my signature, acting as a unifying thread in both art and life. I believe that the power of artistic expression should be limitless and free, which is why abstract art holds such significance for me. Abstraction enables me to showcase a wide variety of styles in my work and explore uncharted territories. The diva concept, which I cultivated in my professional life, revolves around defining one’s own role and embracing self-determination. As a feminist, I strive to empower individuals to harness their creative potential and design their own narratives. In my various roles as a scientist, trainer, consultant, activist, leader, speaker, and moderator, I seek to break free from narrow definitions, limiting beliefs, stereotypes, and labels. This journey leads me to explore these themes and express them through diverse styles, techniques, settings, and compositions. The diva concept encourages individuals to craft their own stories and define their unique identities. The Phoenix symbolizes the continuous cycle of death and rebirth in the creative process, confronting the shadows of existence, and venturing into the unimaginable. Living out this artistic footprint encompasses all aspects of Art, Life, and Expression. Being a DIVA means perpetually reinventing oneself - vibrant, sublime, untamed, focused, proud, dignified, unpredictable, and ever-evolving. PHOENIX embodies the fire, the mystical, the eternal transformation, ascension, letting go, trusting, and re-creating. ART represents the alchemy of expression, articulation, and creation.”
How would you describe your work?
“My art profoundly resonates with people, holding significant meaning for them. During studio visits, I’ve seen tears in the eyes of those who experience my work. Many patrons express that my paintings energize them and create a deep connection. At my last exhibition, I encouraged attendees to discuss my pieces with strangers, and the response was overwhelming; everyone perceived or felt a meaning within them - this is the true essence of art. My creations connect with the inner worlds of individuals in diverse ways. They are energetic, mysterious, deep, sparkling, and alchemical.”
Which artists influence you most?
“Lee Krasner, Georgia O'Keeffe, Helen Frankenthaler, Leonora Carrington, Jenny Saville, Simone Leigh, Elaine and Willem de Kooning,, Joan Mitchell, Mary Abbott, Max Ernst, Marie Bashkirtseff, Susan Valadon, Frida Kahlo, Gabriele Münter, and many more - I am inspired by so many artists and be grateful for everyone who is brave enough to follow this path.”
“My art profoundly resonates with people, holding significant meaning for them.”
What is your creative process like?
“The creative process is incredibly varied for me; sometimes it's an impulsive spark that I need to rein in immediately. Other times, it's a mood or even a journey that spans years. I often start with sketches, aiming to translate concepts into a series of paintings. There have been moments when I’ve worked on five different pieces simultaneously, while at other times, I become fixated on specific colors and settings. Overall, I shy away from routines and art that seeks to simply please. This doesn't mean that beauty isn’t important; rather, I believe artwork should convey a deeper message. I enjoy remaining open to new techniques and environments, always pushing my creative boundaries. For instance, my most recent exhibition titled ‘Grande Bellezza - La Fenice’ was a heartfelt tribute to my cherished city, Venice. I draw inspiration from the colors used by the old masters, particularly those found in the ceilings of Scuola di San Rocco, showcasing Tintoretto's life work.”
What is an artist’s role in society and how do you see that evolving?
“As both a scientist and an artist, my perspective may differ. First and foremost, an artist's role is to present their work. Additionally, we must be responsible members of society. Our words and attitudes hold significance, especially when we have admirers who appreciate our art and wish to follow our journeys. For me, understanding art history and the power dynamics within the art market is crucial. As a feminist and a democrat who cares for our planet, my views on societal development are important. I strive to be clear about my opinions and delve deeply into topics before expressing myself. As a scientist, I recognize the prevailing beliefs, trends, and power structures in various movements; I prefer to work with facts rather than fiction. In my art, I embrace the unknown, and as a responsible artist, I would never endorse ideas or feelings purely based on sentiment. What I really love is to promote solutions, visions for a better future without ignoring the reality.”
Have you had any noteworthy exhibitions you'd like to share?
“My recent exhibition, ‘Gande Bellezza - la Fenice,’ was an overwhelmingly incredible experience. It was a solo show held at Galerie Seelenkuss in Berlin. The opening night was fantastic; my brother, an exceptional guitarist, and his friend Koko, whom I consider the best singer, provided wonderful music, while attendees danced outside the gallery at the end. The response to my work was profoundly moving, as I organized an exchange with visitors, encouraging them to engage in conversations about my art with strangers. They later shared their thoughts in front of the audience, creating numerous goosebump moments. I sold paintings directly during the opening and still have appointments at my studio due to ongoing interest. The most extraordinary moment occurred during my finissage: a marriage proposal took place in front of one of my favorite pieces, ‘The Portal,’ which served as the wedding gift. This exhibition was remarkable in every way - the atmosphere, the people, and the gallery owner, Oliver, who showed immense appreciation for my art. As an artist, I am incredibly thankful for the support and recognition of my work from my mother, sister, husband, close friends, and my professional network. My cousin Jo even traveled from Italy with her husband just for this opening. The gallery owner, who is also an artist, was the perfect match - deeply in love with my art, fully supportive, and open to all my ideas. Every artist would be fortunate to have such a gallerist by their side.”
