Deborah Boelter, Ph, D., psychologist & artist

Dr. Deborah Boelter has been a practicing psychologist since 1989 with a private practice in Dallas’ Uptown area. She received her doctorate in psychology from Texas Woman’s University. Although Deborah sees clients with a variety of presenting issues, including various forms of trauma, she is recognized in the community for her specialized work in the treatment of women’s issues such as, body image and eating difficulties. The stories of strength and struggle she has heard over the years impact her creative view and emerge as concepts in much of her artistic work.

Deborah creates rich collages with mixed media that are often metaphors for stories she carries in her head. Her paintings are visual expressions of fanciful and feminist inspirations. She hopes her work takes the viewer to imaginary worlds where plus-size beauty queens display fabulous body positivity alongside brightly colored animals able to communicate directly with humans. Whimsical creatures wearing butterfly wings emerge out of foil, string and vintage wrapping paper to encourage flight and freedom. You also may find fabulous alley cats sporting eyeliner and crowns claiming they are directly descended from royalty on the Pink Star.

Within Deborah’s work found objects & poetry come together to tell stories on the brightly colored canvas. Messages, prayers and wishes are found in her poetry, either folded within the art piece or hiding on the back of each canvas. Deborah wants her art to challenge the viewer to think about the often heartbreaking beauty of the world, as well as the real life dilemmas we face every day. Her art has been described as folk art with a whimsical flair.