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Washington Evening Journal
111 North Marion Avenue
Washington, IA 52353
319-653-2191
Dover Sunday program presented by Deb Scott
Deb Scott retired from the New London School District two years ago. Never one to sit still, she has continued a busy schedule pursuing her many interests. “Faces of the Skunk River” has occupied a great deal of time. Her “faces” all have a story. When you attend one of her art shows, the stories associated with each head are provided both in writing and with a QR code. For those unfamiliar with QR codes, these little icons and the phone app that goes with them allow you to access the information related to the object. In this case, Deb reads the story to you. It is typical of Deb that she combines old technologies with new technologies in nearly everything she attempts. To relate an old joke, in the early days of computer, the “original” word processor was passed out at every convention — A PENCIL. In this case, the old technology used a little newer — a ballpoint pen. The QR technology invented in 11994 is popular in museums or along self-guided trails — in essence taking the place of a guide.
Another example of Deb’s split personality (old vs new) shows in her choice of tools. She began her presentation by showing the tools she makes herself from turtle shells, deer antlers/bones and many other naturally occurring materials. Consequently, her creative techniques are largely self-taught and full of trial and error. Deb does research and adapts her methods using “expert” advice. She has taken a few classes and they have helped her focus on the areas that interest her the most.
Fifty-five faces have been created so far. The stories and personalities of each head come straight from Deb’s imagination. Each sculpture is surrounded with the items needed by the character. She loves each one but has decided to share them and they are for sale. It is simply impossible to store that many. Also making the busts is not the only pottery and artwork she likes to do. She has exhibited at the Burlington Art Center and at the Art Gallery in Mount Pleasant. Plans are being made to continue exhibiting her work around Iowa.
The audience was able to have a great discussion with Deb as she shared many personal experiences with patrons, ordinary people and her hands-on education. Many laughs were enjoyed by all. The consensus of the group — Deb needs to write books about her art and her thoughts on humanity post haste.
Three personalities are on display in the front window of the Dover Museum in New London. Stop and spend a few minutes observing these intriguing people and their takes on life.
