Today we’d like to introduce you to Julia Blake.
Julia, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I started painting just for fun about 7 years ago when I was introduced to local artist Leslie Graff. That fun rapidly grew into a passion and when someone bought my first painting it became a new career. I have since trained privately and as RISD. Inspired by everyday living, I tend to use nature’s symbols and personal experiences to compose my art. Through metaphor, I paint what matters most in my relationships and struggles. Hoping that happiness can be cultivated, I often paint to uplift and foster joy in the viewer. Much thanks to social media (and luck), I have sold paintings to collectors in over 26 states as well as Europe, Asia and South America.
Has it been a smooth road?
I recently heard an artist joke that creating art is a small intersection between an absolute narcissist and crippling self-doubt. I’d say that’s pretty true for me – especially since I’ve lately gravitated to more abstract art. The biggest struggle for me is remaining confident and enjoying my process and product despite how others react to it. My goal is to require no outside validation for my work. Don’t ask me how I’m doing with that – though I will say, I lean toward the crippling self-doubt most of the time. Throw in all the business details of bookkeeping, marketing, etc. and some days, I long for my old life, but there’s no going back.
So let’s switch gears a bit and go into Julia Blake Artist story. Tell us more about the business.
I am known for vivid colors and loose, minimal strokes whether I’m painting a crowded beach, a forest full of forsythia or a field of poppies. Often, I compose with unexpected color rather than value (light and dark).
Do you have a lesson or advice you’d like to share with young women just starting out?
Work, work, work. Set high goals and surround yourself with positive people who are going places. Be generous with your time and talents to lift those around you. Take time to give to your community.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.juliablakeart.com
- Phone: 781-296-6064
- Email: julia@juliablakeart.com
- Instagram: juliablakeart
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/juliablakeart/
- Twitter: @juliablake4
Image Credit:
Portrait by Jane Rhodes, Art by Julia Blake
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