Julia Martin: “Stitching Moments” Into Incredible Abstract Art
Get to know artist Julia Martin, from Denver, Colorado, as she prepares to release a collection of all new pieces for the latest virtual art show experience from Artburst Studios!
To Be Featured In: An Unexpected Twist (May, 2024)
Learn More & View Work Examples: Artburst Studios Artist Profile
Julia Martin, an abstract artist based in Denver, Colorado, draws inspiration from her roots in North Carolina, where her great-grandmother Mammaw, and grandmother Sarabelle, taught her the traditional skills of quilting, sewing, and crocheting. These early experiences laid the groundwork for her unique approach to patchwork and fiber art, which has evolved into her own compelling personal style.
Julia’s work combines abstract line work with small paper scraps, layering them with oil and wax, then hand-stitching them into larger assemblages. This intricate process creates a tapestry of small moments that, when joined together, form incredibly intricate pieces. Her art speaks to themes of intimacy, perseverance, and repair. Each of her creations reflects a process of scraping down, covering up, and mending, using thread to stitch together completed pieces that resonate with a sense of connection.
“Intimacy, perseverance, grittiness, and repair are consistent themes as I mend, using thread as a primary tool for my own visual language.”
Before transitioning to professional art, Julia worked in healthcare as a public health practitioner and a certified nurse midwife. This background informs her art, and has shaped aspects of her artistic journey. Her experience of sharing intimate moments in the lives of others—whether in joy or grief—is mirrored in her current work. For Julia, each seam in her pieces represents the delicate process of healing and the strength that comes from mending both the body and the spirit.
“I can often be found stitching my work in moments in between,” Julia says. “I sew small scraps together, much like these moments come together to make up a day. The resulting patchworks show how I collate visuals, thoughts, memories, and ideas—my grist for living a life.” The pliability and fragility of paper are central to Julia’s work, allowing her to suture her compositions like gently pulling back skin to heal.
Julia’s art serves as a reminder of the bonds that connect us, both in our personal lives and within the broader world. Her latest collection of original pieces will be unveiled at our next virtual art show “An Unexpected Twist“, which opens on Wednesday, May 29th at 10am MT. The show will close on Friday, May 31st at 6pm MT. Be sure to create your free Collector Account early so you are prepared for the show open!
You can see more of Julia’s work at her official website: www.juliamartinartist.com
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