Introducing artist Julia Tema Contacessi and her fine works of abstract expressionism. Please enjoy our interview and the art she has presented in this article. I think that you will find it as inspiring and mesmerizing as I do!
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| Terrain |
Julia, tell us about your early years and your beginnings in the
world of art and creativity.
When I was about 3 years old my mother joined a playgroup with
other mothers that had toddler age children. The structure for the playgroup was a craft or
art project, snack and playtime. When craft time was over the norm was that all
the children ran over for snack, except me. It was known by all that I wanted
to keep working on my project, and so I did. I think this is the best way to
describe my approach to art and creativity. I love it, am focused on it, and
can be perfectly content to do it all the time.
Are you a self-taught artist or where did you take art courses?
I got my BFA in 2000 after 4 years of study at Pratt Institute in
Brooklyn, NY. At the time my focus was on graphic design, illustration and
photography. After graduating, I went on to work as a designer and eventually a
Creative Director, all the while painting for myself. It wasn't until just
about 15 months ago that I left my full-time job in marketing to pursue
painting full-time. I have never looked back!
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| Changing Winds |
Were you encouraged to pursue your dreams and did you have a mentor
or artists who inspired you?
I am very lucky. I
have two very supportive parents that encouraged me to pursue my dreams —
whatever they may be.
So many artists
inspire me. My very first inspiration was my mother. She is an artist, designer
and teacher and encouraged my creativity in all forms & mediums. Helen
Frankenthaler is another. Her belief that there is “no formula” and the artist
should “let the picture lead you where it must go,” are principles that I
embrace.
I was lucky enough
to study under Charles Goslin for 2 years at Pratt. He was a wealth of wisdom
and I translated much of his advice into action, not only in art but life. I
think this quote from Goslin helps to sum up much of his philosophy, “You can
help heal a world full of hurt and violence, with the beauty and grace it so
desperately needs.”
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| The fabulous work of art by Julia makes this area of a room sing! |
How does painting make you feel? How would you describe your artistic
style?
Some days creating can be a battle,
but then there is that moment when I layer on the paint just right — so that it
dances in time and space. The canvas yields to my will, and I know I’ve just
begun to capture something meaningful. That‘s when I have to catch my breath.
It’s fascinating and wonderful, while at the same time, a struggle. That’s why
I paint. My style is single-minded and focused on the simplicity of beauty in
the moment. My goal is to drown out the noise and clutter to find a sense of
calm. The end result is clean, fresh and modern.
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| Waking Dreams |
What else inspires your works of art? Do you work plein aire, from
photographs, or from the images in your own mind?
And although I carefully plan out my
color palette, I let my paintings’ composition; lines and structure develop and
evolve as I work. Not working from photos or images in my head, but instead building
upon the canvas before me. Sometimes the hardest part is laying down the first
brush stroke.
Where can our readers find your works of art and do you have any
upcoming exhibits?
My work is sold in the following
design shops and galleries:
- Sorelle Gallery in New Canaan, Connecticut
- Bel Mondo in Westport, Connecticut
- Anam Cara Gallery in Greenwich, Connecticut
- Minted - http://www.minted.com/store/contacessi
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In addition to the above locations,
you can see all of my work on my site www.juliacontacessi.com. There you can sign-up
for the mailing list to get a sneak peak at the latest
work, plus updates on events and promotions.
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| Julia Tema Contacessi |
Finally what words of wisdom would you impart to the
aspiring artist of any age?
Do what you love,
and tell everyone about it. If you want to do your art as a living, don’t be
shy about it and don’t keep it a secret. Surround yourself with like-minded
creatives and help one another to succeed in your goals. Peers are just as important as mentors.
Julia thank you so much for this enlightening interview. Your passion for your art shows so beautifully!
Dear readers, a work of original fine art is the perfect gift for couples to give one another, or to acquire for oneself at the Holidays. Please do consider art at the top of your Gift List!
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xoxo
Karena
The Arts by Karena
