Julia has always stitched and created art from fabrics, threads and recycled things, and sold her first works whilst in her teens.  After studying design and art up to A’ level she went on to do a business degree and settled in the north east where mountains were more accessible than they were in the home counties!

Julia’s love of the outdoors led her to work in outdoor education as a volunteer and freelance instructor in climbing, canoeing and expedition training.  But she earned her money working in a media, film and photography project.

In a very convoluted way, after qualifying as a teacher, being a student of ceramics, gaining City & Guilds part 1 and part 2 in Embroidery, and working as an Arts Development Officer for a few years, Julia then returned to her passion of art and textiles for her career, and began to sell her work once more.  Julia enjoys passing on what she’s learned about textiles, and remains committed to enriching students by inspiring them to express themselves imaginatively through creative, artistic and personal exploration.

Julia has been self-employed since the last century.  She continues to make, exhibit and sell her work with local, national and international groups; she works on community art projects in schools and museums; she teaches in her studio, colleges and for STITCHBUSINESS, and undertakes private and public commissions and consultancy work.

Julia’s textile work reflects influences gained from her travels in India and Central and South America.  Her use of colour is bold and exuberant – Julia creates quirky and spirited textile artwork that is spirited and full of energy.  Her influences include Gaudi, Hundertwasser, Klimt, Frida Kahlo and Vivienne Westwood.