We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Julie Malone. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Julie below.
Julie , so good to have you with us today. We’ve always been impressed with folks who have a very clear sense of purpose and so maybe we can jump right in and talk about how you found your purpose?
I found purpose in myself and the reason why I love making art by looking at the painting, “Interior with a Book” by Richard Diebenkorn at The Nelson Atkins Museum Of Fine Art in Kansas City Missouri
I was an adolescent about to enter 4th grade when I first encountered this painting. My dad would take me to the museum almost every Sunday in the mid 80’s. Back then the museum offered free entry on Sunday. By our second visit, I proclaimed that it was my favorite painting in the entire museum. There was something about it that shook my core. Frozen in time, stunned and in awe, even at a young age. I did not know it at the time but this painting had ignited something in me and I would be forever be changed by the depth of it all. What was it about that painting? Was it the singular book and chair, a quiet place to dwell? Or the vibrant colors, lines and movement? All of those things and more, lifted my heart and still does to this day.
It took me several years to understand what making good art requires. I can now say that what happened to me, while looking at ” Interior with a Book” is now what I strive to provide in my work. My job as an artist is to create works that offer the viewer pause. My purpose is to provide an opportunity to escape from reality, from time and space. A place to forget your troubles, your story-line and to let go of all the thinking. I strive to create work that transports the viewer into another reality just like that Diebenkorn painting did for me.
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
I have been working as a professional artist making hundreds of oil paintings, professionally here in Saint Louis for 25 years (gosh it could actually be a few thousand by now and that is crazy to think about). Over time my style has evolved into what I self proclaim as Atmospheric Abstraction. During this span, even though it has evolved, I have purposefully maintained a subtle yet, visually distinct method, specifically within my paint application.
Each oil painting is hand crafted. Every painting, big and small, has a 2″deep hand-built wood frame covered with 1/8″ masonite veneer. I prefer a rigid painting surface over a fabric canvas or linen but I have used other methods. Completed wood panel paintings are framed with a sleek but simple quarter inch hardwood veneer, offered in a natural Maple or Walnut (stained “dark chocolate”). I specifically developed these presentation methods to increase the value of my work and make it easily identifiable. Every painting is 100% original and I do not offer prints.
My work can be seen and purchased through Houska Gallery in the Central West End, in Saint Louis Missouri. We have maintained our 25 year art gallery relationship and I am so honored to be a featured artist. To buy direct from me through my studio please contact me by email or through social media platforms. Contact me by email at [email protected] or [email protected]. Commissioned work can be obtained under certain guidelines.
GO SEE ART, Support Artists by frequenting art exhibits and most of all, BUY Original Art, you deserve it.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Looking back, I think it is most important for a young person to have is a strong belief in themselves. You have to make your dreams manifest. Secondly, everyone needs opportunity and freedom to explore both big a small. For me it was seeing that Diebenkorn painting at the museum and believing that I could. Then with support from loved ones, I was able to put a dream into action. My Aunt Liz bought me a large pre-made canvas. It was the action that set me on the path to where I am today. Interestingly enough, you know what I painted on that first canvas? A chair flooded by sunlight. My sister has that painting, I think, It was my first real attempt at a dream manifest.
Say yes to your dreams and focus on what brings you joy, Surround yourself with people that want you to be happy and those that believe in you. I certainly pushed my parents buttons but they always allowed me to explore. They knew the secret to happiness is finding something you love to do. Remember this, it is never too late to do the thing.
The advice I would offer to a artist, at any age, is this; Seek out your joy find inspiration, master it, believe in your self and most importantly act on it. Don’t give up.
Pro Tip; Mastery is a mindset. Also, learn to take all criticisms as a constructive analysis. Listen to people, ask questions and again, follow your heart… be passionate and believe in your path.
Alright so to wrap up, who deserves credit for helping you overcome challenges or build some of the essential skills you’ve needed?
I have, and continue to learn many things from lots of really wonderful, intelligent and diverse people. I learned quite a bit from family members as a young person. My parents may not have understood what I wanted to do but they always encouraged me to do what I had a passion for, Art. Having two painters in the family was helpful but I did not know my Aunties were artists until I started having an interest in making art, My grandfather taught me not to be afraid. He taught me how to use tools. I am very mindful of saws and machinery thanks to him. I also learned by observing other artist’s art. I mean that is SO important. Artists observing artist is what creates art history! Don’t be afraid to ask artists about their work. Trust me, we love to talk about it!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://houskagallery.com/julie-malone.com
- Instagram: Julie Malone Paintings
- Facebook: Julie Malone Paintings
Image Credits
All Images provided by the artist, Julie Malone
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
