Debra Ali is available to assist and instruct those who would like to develop their skills in painting during the open studio sessions at Visual Arts Brampton on Thursday evenings from 7 to 9pm.

Debra began painting at a young age with a passion for landscapes, nature and animals. She had a natural talent for reproducing detail in her work and an eye for mixing harmonious colour. She has worked at refining her style throughout her schooling and career and is always striving to push the boundaries of her ability.

Her educational background includes Digital Painting for Animation and Fine Arts at Sheridan College, 3D Modeling and Animation at Humber College, a Bachelor of Arts from York University and 10 years of training with the Royal Conservatory of Music.

In 1993 she entered York University as a music major with the dreams of pursuing a career as a musician. During those years, she also dappled in digital painting on the family computer. After graduating, she decided to pursue graphic design, renewing her passion for art.

Debra works as a professional graphic designer and has been fortunate to work on some very interesting and artistically challenging projects including, environmental murals, wallcoverings, textiles, themed graphic collections, and other creative projects.

She became a member of Visual Arts Brampton in 2005. She was a board member from 2008 - 2010. She volunteers for the group at community events and is a portfolio judge for the youth classes, at the end of each year.

Debra won the People's Choice Award at the 2006 Art Gallery of Peel Juried Art Show.

"It's very important to have a group like Visual Arts Brampton in the community, where people can get together in a relaxed atmosphere to learn, grow and be inspired by others with similar interests in the arts."