Originally from Nova Scotia, Julia has now lived in Maine for 15 years. Her art has always been impassioned by the sea and in its proximity, she feels alive and creatively complete. With a BFA from The Nova Scotia College of Art & Design, Julia's journey in textile, graphic, and costume design has led her to the joyful discovery of 'found object' sculpture. It is not surprising that she enjoys 'sewing' her creations together with wire, given her background. Her mother taught her to sew at an early age and she is reminded of her with each 'stitch'. Every aspect of her creative process, from scavenging the woods and coastlines to hours spent in her studio, brings her profound peace. Julia is drawn to the elements of iron (the rustier the better), copper, stone, and wood and strives to balance them in her sculpture. She has had several solo shows as well as group shows in Maine and in Nova Scotia.
"I am a scavenger and an iron hound. Since I was a child, rusty iron remnants discarded by past lives have lured me. Old beds and cars and other rotting, wonderful iron carcasses call out to me. They are rich in history and speak of, perhaps, a more physical but simpler way of life. I love the color and texture of rust, especially when combined with stone and wood. I love that nature has changed these objects in its process of reclaiming them. After I find these special objects. I continue their metamorphosis in my studio. Sometimes I know right away how I will incorporate them into my sculpture and sometimes they sit with me for years.
Mindful scavenging insists that I step outside of myself to immerse in and study nature. Its beauty and the patterns found in every living or dormant thing, never cease to spark within me, a deep and soulful appreciation. This solitary time feeds me with renewed passion and strength which sees me through my artistic process in the studio and thus, my journey as an artist. Each piece I create is unique. They continue to evolve alongside the artist in me. I am most passionate about my seahorse and lobster series. It amuses me that the lobster is also a scavenger."