Julie Connor [Biography]

Julie is a predominantly self taught, multi-media, UK Visual Artist. Born in Staffordshire, Julie now lives in Colchester, Essex with her husband Sean and her two children, a dog and two cats!

Julie began painting and drawing at an early age but decided against any formal art training, choosing instead to develop her talent through self taught means. Julie consequently moved through the educational system into a successful career in nursing, but later decided to give this up to pursue her love of art full time.

Julie enjoys using a variety of media to produce her works. Julie uses graphite, pastel and acrylic to create portraits which are usually done via commissions, but are otherwise inspired through her love of animals and wildlife. Julie strives to create the emotions of the animal through a certain amount of realism, but also by creating an ambience and energy within the piece.

Julie's landscape paintings however are her true love and expression. For these Julie prefers using acrylic for its versatility, particularly high flow fluid acrylics and inks. "I adore using bright, bold colours and often team them with contrasting dark, moody backgrounds".

Julie works from her home studio in Essex as this is where she is most content. "I endeavour to connect with my audience by providing escapism, reducing stress and promoting feelings of well being".