CoRK NORTH, STUDIO G

Artist • Photographer • Graphic Designer

From the age of eight, Deborah’s passion for art has been a defining part of her life. In the 1970s, her earlywatercolor paintings were sold in local stores, transforming a childhood hobby into her first professional artistic venture. In the 1990s, she expanded her creative path by studying photography at the University of North Florida, with portraiture quickly becoming her primary focus.

During this time, she also began teaching professional photographers how to use Corel Painter and Adobe Photoshop, pioneering the transformation of photographs into digital paintings. While these works were well-received, Deborah discovered that they lacked the texture, richness, and vitality found in traditional oil painting. This realization led her back to the timeless medium of paintbrush and canvas.

Today, through oils and other traditional mediums, Deborah celebrates the beauty of God’s creation. Whether landscapes, portraits, or still life, each work reflects light, life, and truth—crafted to glorify God and to inspire viewers with a sense of wonder.

Mentorship

Deborah completed a year-long mentorship with acclaimed artist Todd M. Casey in 2024. She has also studied under noted artists Frank Covino, Seth Havercamp, and Mary Whyte.

Professional Affiliations & Recognition

- Master’s designation, Wedding & Portrait Photographers International (WPPI)

- Craftsman Degree, Professional Photographers of America (PPA)

- Art Tech Award, Florida Professional Photographers (FPP)

- Outstanding Leadership & Dedication to Professional Photography, United Nations International Photographic Council (2006)

- Past President, The Art Guild of Orange Park

- Member, The Art Guild of Orange Park, First Coast Oil Painters

- Florida Ambassador, Portrait Society of America

Exhibits & Awards

Photography

- Fuji Masterpiece Award

- PPA Loan Print Collection

Fine Art

- Exhibited at Thrasher-Horne Gallery, Mossman Hall, JCA, and Orange Park Town Hall

- Fruits of the Season — a series of twelve still-life paintings — will be exhibited November 2025 at the Jacksonville Jewish Community Alliance (JCA)

Teaching

Together with her husband, Rick, Deborah has taught professional photographers across the globe, presenting workshops in the United States, Europe, and Canada. Their programs have included a 21-city U.S. tour, specialized schools, and workshops. Locally, Deborah has also taught Photoshop for Artists.

Publications

Deborah is the author of two instructional books:

- Artistic Techniques: Using Photoshop and Painter

- Wedding Photography with Adobe Photoshop

Both were published by Amherst Media.

Connect

Visit Deborah’s site

- Facebook: FerroArtisticTechniques

- Instagram: @deborahferroartist

- Email: deb@deborahferro.com