Turquoise Sky Studio, LLC
Owner: Debi Smith


About Me
As a native New Mexican born in Albuquerque, I have a deep connection to my homeland. I joined the military out of high school and spent many years at duty stations, including working on a Master's in Art in 3D design, before returning to the Land of Enchantment after 36 years. I retired from the government in 2022, and while I continue to teach art part time, I have more time to focus on my passion for creating with clay. I am inspired by the multicultural aspects and the sacred land of New Mexico. Primarily a clay artist, I love telling narratives with sculptures and organic shapes of my experiences and connections to earth and life itself. Life is fleeting, and from time to time I capture in clay those subjects important to me. Through the shapes, textures, and colors of my surrounding native land, I embrace the creation cycle from the raw earth to the finished piece. Vessels are organic in shape and might be finished with floral designs, Raku and Saggar treatments, which mirror the landscape around us. Each vessel is focused on emergence, discovery, and rebirth. It is through the openings (Sipapu) that we emerge, just as in the many beliefs from this sacred land. I am a member of New Mexico Clay and Pottery Artists and the New Mexico State Committee, National Museum of Women in the Arts.
Education
2000-2003
California State University, Northridge, CA
M. A. in Art, 3-D concentration
Graduated with Distinction
1997-2000
California State University, Northridge, CA
B. A. in Fine Arts, 3D concentration
Graduated Cum Laude
1994-1997
Antelope Valley College, Lancaster, CA
A.A. in General Education, Fine Art concentration
Graduated Magna Cum Laude