Deborah Saks

Your journey into collage began unexpectedly in 2009. What was it about that first workshop that truly captured your imagination?

The workshop gave me the freedom to express my thoughts and ideas without constraints.

Deborah Saks | Circles of life | 2024

How did your background in photography and design influence your approach to collage?

Photography taught me how to frame a composition while design gave me the impetus to use bold colours and shapes in my collages.

Deborah Saks | Circles of life | 2025

Your works feel very dynamic and rhythmic. Do you consciously think about movement and composition while creating, or does it emerge intuitively?

It just unfolds and I know when it is complete.

You use a wide range of materials, from vintage papers to modern magazine images. How do you select and combine these elements?

I am always collecting paper—vintage and new. When I travel I pick up colourful leaflets, flyers, maps, magazines , etc. I cut out images and shapes constantly and store them for future use. Over the years I have built up a vast repository of materials.

Deborah Saks | Playful | 2025

Many of your collages feature repetition of shapes, especially circles. What draws you to this visual language?

I love the endless patterns and designs the layering of the colourful circles produces. The designs that come alive and are always changing.

Deborah Saks | Study in Black and white | 2023

Has moving from the U.S. to Liverpool influenced your artistic perspective or practice in any way?

Liverpool is a friendly and welcoming city. The city has a distinct edge and a pulse that has allowed my creativity to grow. From the moment I arrived here, I was exhibiting in many places.

Deborah Saks | Tangled | 2024

What role does texture play in your work, and how important is it for the viewer’s experience?

Texture is key to all my compositions because it articulates rhythm and movement. These features draw in the viewer for study and reflection.