Deb Courvoisier: Bringing Heart to Art

“I have the best gig in this whole place.”

So says Northwestern Polytechnic’s Visual Arts Coordinator, Deb Courvoisier. “I take care of all my little babies,” she says warmly, referring to the over 3900 pieces of art in NWP’s collection. You’ll find that art throughout the campus – from the large-scale sculptures outside the main entrance to demure landscapes tucked into professors’ offices. Deb knows every piece and is excited to share them with NWP’s students, staff and visitors.

Now entering her 11^th year with NWP, Deb is both an artist herself and deeply entwined in the Peace Country’s arts community. After years of curating shows and volunteering her skills, she was delighted to take on the part-time visual coordinator role. “I feel honoured they keep me,” Deb says modestly.

A typical day for Deb might start with inviting a faculty or staff member into “the Vault”. That’s what they call the area that stores NWP’s extensive collection of art. The space is often the envy of visiting colleagues. “I’m told we have the best set-up for storage,” notes Deb. With “drawers and drawers of art” to choose from, Deb works with vault visitors to choose the right piece for their office or workspace.

“I pretty much have all the art memorized,” she explains, which helps her walk guests through the collection to discover exactly what they’re looking for, followed by a visit to install their choice. Deb selects art for communal spaces as well, filling blank spaces and envisioning what works best. Wherever art finds a home at NWP, Deb ensures it’s thoughtfully placed so it’s appreciated by everyone.

NWP’s collection is beautifully catalogued, with a photo and dimensions noted for each piece. Deb tracks where each item is on campus, manages what gets framed and purchased, and ensures the art is well cared for. While the majority of the collection is paintings, it also includes photography, sculpture and mixed-media works.

“Another great thing about my job is the year-end show,” Deb notes. As part of the committee that selects student art for NWP’s collection, Deb looks forward to the annual event showcasing work by visual art students. “It’s a platform for emerging artists, and gives them a glimpse of the value of their creations,” she explains. “I hope it encourages them to continue pursuing their artistic passions.”

Deb’s own passion is working with clay and introducing people to the medium. After years as a pottery instructor, Deb recently opened her own business with former student Aurelia Jas. The Clay Pit welcomes everyone who’s looking to get their hands dirty. “All kinds of potters, hand builders, clay throwers – everyone who comes is having a great time,” she says affectionately.

Deb’s sunny personality shines whether she’s sharing her excitement about her new business or talking about her work with NWP. “I really love what it’s doing for the community,” she says of the school. She praises the increased degree offerings, modernized facilities and collaborations with staff and local businesses. Deb played a part in creating an NWP time capsule to be opened in 2042, and her excitement for the future is infectious. “There are so many promising changes here!”

When not working with clay or NWP’s art collection, Deb is helping shape the lives of her six grandchildren, calling them “phenomenal individuals,” while her husband, daughters and sons-in-law are “amazing humans.” Deb brings warmth and optimism to all her endeavours, and NWP is grateful to benefit from Deb’s sharp-eyed and warm-hearted approach to life and art.