Art is so much more than just a picture.

With many disturbing challenges in our world right now, it's a relief to come back to art-making. I let it wrap around me. Foremost is the calm that comes from sinking into the act of painting. It empties my mind of everything else. A mental and emotional mini-vacation.

Looking at someone else's art works too. I get to experience wonder and awe, maybe joy, maybe shock, maybe transformation.

Not all art has to soothe and beautify. Sometimes art is purely provocative. Doesn't it ask us to think, to come outside the box into the world's playground of deep thinkers? The invitation requires that we stretch and loosen our cozy assumptions and expectations. All good.

Today on NPR I heard an article about a new study finding that regular engagement with the arts can slow the biological aging process. I love the validation.

Whether I'm the maker or the viewer, I'm participating. In either case, I'm glad art and artists are in the world.

New Paintings

Here are some things I've got working in the studio. And more coming on the heels of these.

I'm also working on a method for glass-less framing for works on paper. I want my gouaches to be easier and safer to ship and still protect the work. There are myriad variables involved, but I'm nearly there after a few more process tests. I think. I'll let you know!

Art Print Club Is Happening

Many thanks to all who've signed up for my Art Print Club! The May delivery will be on its way toward the end of the month.

Art Print Club is a little piece of beauty and a moment of reflection in your mailbox every month. It's tiny portable art crafted with care and meant to be shared, gifted, displayed, or simply enjoyed.

It's a way for me to get to know you, and for you to get to know me.

You'll receive a beautiful signed art card featuring my select artwork, and a letter from me, even a fun art sticker. Delivered from my studio to your door each month for $7.

Help me spread the word. Share with a friend!

Warmly,

Julia

I promised you two sketches to catch up. This first is a page from a sketching trip up on the McKenzie River, my home for so many years. It's profound to go back and see the massive changes in plants, topography and places remembered.

This is another sketch from a short hop to the coast, on a partially cloudy day. A lovely new-to-me beach with sculpted sand cliffs, rocks, sandy beaches. Grateful for sand to warm my bare feet. The air was brisk and a bit sharp. I was so happy for some warm sunshine!

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"Art Backstage" is my tiny gift to you. Each month I include a page from my art journals as high-resolution, printable (300dpi) image files for you to download and collect.

You can print them or color on them, give them out as gifts, or use them as notecards. Decorate your device or your screensaver. Or collect a handful of them over time.

​Download RockForms Reveal​

​Download Fogarty Beach Bluff​

If you know someone who would enjoy receiving these little gems in their Inbox every month, send them here to sign up for my newsletter. I'd love to have them aboard!​​

Warmly,

Julia