What do you make? Tell us a bit about your creative process. 

I usually begin by sketching Icons or buildings with paper and pencil to set a layout for the composition of the piece.  I then like to use pen and ink to draw the buildings in fine lines. I use photoshop to clean up the illustration and make final refinements before transferring to screen.  I choose to screen print most of my work but for some items it's not possible.  

What do you want people to feel when they experience your work? 

I intend for people to feel nostalgic when they view my work. I hope that people begin to reminisce and reflect on their past interactions with the city, and its people.   

What benefits do you see in being a woman in the creative community? 

I love being able to express myself through my art, and I'm very lucky to be able to do so. I think being a woman in many ways makes it easier to be part of the creative community, as women have a long history of supporting each other, helping one another and sharing ideas. It all comes so naturally to us that it's second nature. Being able to be surrounded by such a diverse group of women is such a motivator.

Who are some of the women in your life that inspire or influence you the most? 

My creativity comes from my mothers side of the family, my mother and aunt are also very creative and have encouraged me from a very young age to explore my creativity through various mediums, such as drawing, paintng, knitting, crochet and pretty much all other crafts.  They were always making something when I was around them and I was able to see their joy their creative outlets gave them. 

What do you love most about the festive season? 

I love giving, and being able to see the joy on peoples faces when they open their gifts. I also love the sense of family and the opportunity to reflect on the year past. Even though recently it's been very tough for everyone, I hope this Christmas marks the beginning of a new chapter.

Shop our collection of Julie's creations here.

November 13, 2021 — Marianne Duval