She is the talented maker of unique fiber art creations. She studied Illustration at Pratt Institute of Art, then worked as a custom carpet designer before branching out on her own. Julie has been creating her whimsical line of J.E.M.A. Dolls for many years and considers herself a true fabric-aholic!
What is our favorite piece of work that you have created?
My favorite pieces are the special orders for people because I get to create something personal with patron input.
What are our goals for the future, both artistically and in life?
I would love to be able to continue making art for my entire life.
What are you currently working on?
It's time to start thinking about fall and gear up for the holiday shows.
Do you have any other interesting hobbies or maybe a fun story about an experience involving your artwork?
I love writing and reading with equal passion. I also like to garden in the spring.
What is your strongest memory of your childhood?
Riding the neighbor's horses bareback in Oklahoma.
What jobs have you done other than being an artist?
I tried being a waitress a few times and being a pet store attendant, and a receptionist.
What would people be surprised to learn about you?
I am an amateur cryptographer and a crossword puzzle junkie.
Do you have any tips or inspiring words for others?
Go into your studio every day. If you can't think of something to make then you have to clean it up. That gets me going and yes I'm a slob.
Where do you gather most of your inspiration for your artwork?
Nature.
What is your favorite...
Color: Yes all of them!
Pet and/or animal: Yes all of them!
Season: Spring and Fall!
Movie: The Fifth Element
Board game: Scrabble
Holiday: All of them!!
Best cup of coffee: Caffeine plus hazelnut!
Ice cream: Low-fat chocolate soft-serve with crunchies on top.
What superpower would you have and why?
Can I have two? I need teleportation plus time travel because how awesome would that be?!!
What is the best piece of advice you've been given?
The best piece of advice I ever received was from one of my art school professors who told me to regard the body of my work as a giant brick wall. So if an ugly brick ever gets made, it's just one ugly brick-insignificant in the structure of your wall.
What's one thing you can't live without?
Chocolate!
What has been the best cultural event you visited in the past year?
The Berkley Art Bash!
Do you admire any artists?
Ed Risak - potter.
What are some of your favorite reads?
I just read and loved My Year of Rest and Relaxation by Otessa Moshfegh.
What do you like to listen to?
Lately, I've been listening to NPR in my studio. I like the Moth Radio Hour.