A Candid Conversation with artist Debra Disman: Art, Community, and the Beautiful Chaos of Creative Life

Debra Disman, 2023 solo show, “I Can’t I Won’t I Will I Do” at ReflectSpace Gallery Photograph by Gene Ogami

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I'm excited to share this heartfelt conversation with the incredible Debra Disman, an artist whose generosity and support of the LA art community never ceases to amaze me. What started as our usual Instagram dialogues evolved into this deeper YouTube discussion about the realities of being working artists in Los Angeles.

In this conversation, we dive into topics that I know so many of us struggle with but rarely discuss openly: the overwhelming guilt that comes with LA's abundance of art events, the paralysis of wanting to support everyone while managing our own creative needs, and the constant juggling act between community engagement and studio time.

Debra shares her thoughtful daily practice - from morning walks and I Ching readings to the "wonky" reality of studio life at 18th Street Arts Complex. We explore how authenticity means accepting our imperfections (yes, I'm talking about being a messy painter!), the geographic challenges of our sprawling city, and how some of our best ideas come when we least expect them.

This isn't a polished conversation about artistic success - it's an honest look at the beautiful messiness of creative life. We talk about anxiety, health challenges, the pressure to attend everything, and the importance of forgiving ourselves for being human. If you've ever felt overwhelmed by opportunities or guilty about not doing "enough," this conversation is for you.

Whether you're part of LA's art scene or creating anywhere else, I hope you'll find something that resonates. As Debra wisely notes, we all need practices that help us reset and come back to ourselves throughout the day.

Thank you, Debra, for always being such a supportive voice in our community and for being so open about the real challenges we face as artists. Your wisdom and authenticity shine through every word.

Watch the full conversation below, and let me know in the comments what resonated most with you.