Debbie, your work offers such a delightful and fresh perspective and makes those appreciating it join you in thinking about how those “things” we think of as fixed are quite changed with momentum. Your work activates the brain cells beyond the objects reflected. I have many times intended to thank you for transporting me from the habit of fixed in my way of thinking. What I love most is what is almost initially uncomfortable, each time, the “change” from a fixed perspective. You have transformed “still life” for all.
Thank you.
Gallery Ring Juror's Comments
“This portfolio of still life paintings is a thrilling departure from the standard. Objects spill and tumble off tables creating alarm, immediacy, impending noise, and a promised mess on the floor if the viewer fails to catch them in time. The disruptive activity and playful energy wake up this somber category which ordinarily depicts silent gatherings of resolute and static articles. Here the inanimate get started and come alive from an invisible cause which forever escapes capture. Each dramatic work is fresh and distinctive yet meets the criteria necessary to maintain membership in this exclusive and sensational collection.”
Robert Gamblin
“Enjoyed the work on your website, the stop action still life paintings are unique. It is interesting see an object in motion as if it was still. Nicely painted too!” - Robert Gamblin, Gamblin Oil Colors
Maryland Federation of Art
“Debbie’s paintings are witty!” - Joann Vaughan, Executive Director, Maryland Federation of Art
Bauhaus Prairie Art Gallery
I received a terrific review from the juror at Bauhaus Prairie Art Gallery. It was in response to my submission of the painting titled "Make Lemonade!", which is one of the series of "kinetic" still lifes. As follows:
'The second place painting by Deborah Kommalan is a classical still life rendered with a whimsical twist. Painted with the realism and richness of a Flemish painter, she levitates the lemons by commanding them, "Make Lemonade!" The lemons leap from their once stasis perch to create energy and movement which is the opposite of "Still Life".'
Thank you so much for your kind words!
Kilt business suit
First, and before talking about the black pinstripe kilt, I must tell you that the glen plaid kilt has, in my opinion, been a smashing success. I have worn it in a number of places where a business suit is called for and, well, it just works. And it looks good and it feels good.
(This comment from a client for whom I made a kilt to match a business suit coat with a vest. It is elegant).
J. A. Hastings
June 11, 2017
Comments from a collector
Deborah's Artwork that I own
Original: Red Onion
Giclee: Tea bag & tea ball
What is it that drew you to the painting you own?
Red Onion: there's a rough edge to the onion that I just wanted to grab and peel off. I saw it in one of your shows and just couldn't get it out of my head until I bought it.Tea Bag: The coloration in the tea ball just amazes me. Even now, with it hanging in my office, I look up and just am awestruck at the way the silver tea ball actually shows red, orange, blue, green and brown. The reflections in the wood table top also draw my eye.
What do you find to be unique about it?
Aside from my sister being the artist? They're realistic but not photographic.
What impact has it had in your home?Tea Bag: Or office, since that's where Tea Bag hangs. My co-workers occasionally remark on it, and are pleasantly surprised that not only I know the artist but am related to her! They admire the composition, and I think they like the tea ball since you don't see those around in most homes.
Red Onion: It's hanging in my kitchen, where I can see it every day. I just enjoy looking at it, and knowing that my sister painted it :)
National Arts Program
Dear Deborah,
You have been chosen as the “Featured Artist” on The National Arts Program Foundation Website.
Each week we highlight one of the wonderful artists from our online gallery. We want to thank you for
taking the time to share your story and your beautiful artwork.
Sincerely,
Maren C. Reid
Anne Arundel Community College
... Congratulations! AACC is proud of one of its own winning first place in competition with Anne Arundel County artists. We hope many came by the gallery at Quiet Waters Park to see your work.
Thanks for making AACC shine even brighter.
I wish you all the best as you continue to pursue your passion.
Sincerely,
Dr. Dawn Lindsay
President
10/7/2013
Wedding Kilt
… wanted to show you how great the kilt looked! Having my kilt pleated to stripe, versus all my guys pleated to sett, was likely lost on most of the attendants, but Carrie still fawns over the difference. Thanks again!
Scott G.
MacNaughton Kilt
…I tried on my kilt this evening. Masterfully done, fits like a glove.
D. McNitt, Washington D.C.
Tomato and Plum
December, 2013
Dear Debbie,
As agreed, find herein the check. One must support the artist, particularly when the art is great.
Yours,
MJG
Towson, Maryland
Baxter of Balvenies Kilt
Debbie -
I think that the kilt is fabulous. The way you arranged the pleating with the pattern of the tartan really highlights the colors and makes for a nice display. And, the fit is perfect.
Bill (Baxter)
The Thistle Stop Shop
... I promise the next bespoke kilt order I get (that is not last-minute!) I will give to you. Your work has been praised far and wide, and though you may not know it, I refer every enquiry I get about a U.S.-based kiltmaker, or someone do do alterations on a kilt, to you. Hopefully some of those customers have mentioned that I sent them...
Cynthia Balfour-Traill BFA FSA Scot, Managing DirectorThe Thistle Stop Shop –scottishimports@earthlink.net
Chesapeake and Caledonian Pipe Band
On behalf of everyone in the Chesapeake Caledonian Pipes and Drums, thank you for your support in making, altering, and repairing our band's kilts! Your work has always been first rate, timely, and reasonably priced.
Art Fournier
Secretary/Treasurer
Chesapeake Caledonian Pipes and Drums
MacBean
Ms. Deborah Kommalan is a superb artist and outstanding master Kilt maker. She artfully crafts each kilt in the traditional Scottish manner and achieves impeccable results. She did one kilt for a son of mine and I was so pleased that we commissioned her to do another for my second son and now she has just completed a third for my son in law. All were done to perfection in true military pleat style.
Captain August v. B. Millard, USN, Retd.
Clan Mac Bean
Kiltie Band of York
The kilts that you made for us (personally and for our band) have always been of the highest quality. I would recommend using "The Kiltlady" - Deb - for any of your needs. Should it be from a small repair to new kilt, you will get excellent service and quality merchandise.
Dennis C. Tilton
Drum Major/Treasurer The Kiltie Band of York