The year of technique

A look back at 2023: A year dedicated to learning, understanding, and honing technique. 

Building a foundation

Witness the development of foundational skills through various sketches, studies, and initial artworks from 2023. These pieces serve as a testament to the dedication and hard work invested in building a strong artistic base, crucial for future paintings and storytelling.

Favorite books 2023

Gone with the Wind

Margaret Mitchell

Atomic Habits

James Clear

Howl's Moving Castle

Diana Wynne Jones

Culpia Mia

Mercedes Ron

Favorite Music

SZA

Grent Perez

Dennis Van Aarssen

Oracle Sisters

In my second year of undergrad, I joined a sorority which really felt out of my comfort zone. But I was dealing with losing friends, family, and myself in the chaos that ensued the past year. I quickly realized that this would be the best decision. I would find people who supported me and my artistic journey. I found a lot of inspiration during this time.

2023 taught me a lot about myself. How strong I am and how I can persevere through challenges. This is a piece on how I wanted to replicate comfort and being young when you had not a worry in the world!

I started a lot of academic research and took a job at the Cleveland Clinic. I learned so much in my time as an employee. I got to see the daily functions and treatments of art therapy. It was so hard to watch people, young and old, struggle to even lift their arms. I watched my patients day in and day out try to pick up a marker and draw a flower or a smiley face. This inspired my artwork the most I had ever experienced. 

View some work

Continue exploring the artistic journey of juliesdiary. View more work and witness the progression beyond 2023.