In the world of art, inspiration fuels creativity and shapes the purpose of an artist. For Juleah Edwards, an Atlanta-based mixed media artist and art instructor, life's ordinary moments provide extraordinary inspiration. Driven by a rich imagination that she has cultivated since childhood, Juleah feels a deep-seated need to create, experiment, and share her narratives through the mediums of painting and photography.
"I have always felt like there are worlds living inside my head," Juleah shares, expressing her natural surge of creativity. This imaginative spirit guides her as she explores themes of youth, fantasy, mystique, and humanity in her art. In Juleah's art, surrealism meets reality, where intimate and unconventional representations of people and nature fuse together, forging a unique dreamscape that evokes new thought patterns in her audience. Raised by a single mother, Juleah learned the value of resourcefulness early in life. This strength allowed her to embrace a nontraditional lifestyle and approach to art, where she continuously seeks out elements of wonder, mystique, and the surreal. Her experiences and explorations – from road trips across the United States in her Volkswagen Beetle to discovering vast landscapes and micro-cultures – serve as valuable sources of inspiration, adding depth and personal narratives to her art.
A graduate of the University of North Georgia, Juleah received her Art Marketing degree in December 2021. This milestone, along with her first solo exhibition, "Roads We Belong To," are accomplishments she cherishes greatly. In addition, she stands as a semi-finalist for a Fulbright Scholarship in Indonesia, where she hopes to teach English and art.
Juleah’s artistic journey wasn’t always smooth, and she didn't initially believe she possessed the 'it' factor necessary for success in the art world. However, working as a paint instructor at a local paint & sip studio in her senior year of high school opened her eyes to the possibilities of the art world. This experience allowed her to realize that she was capable of defining her unique artistic identity. Juleah embraces the challenges of pursuing an unconventional career, understanding that every rejection and hardship tests her resolve. "All you can choose is to not give up," Juleah muses. She is driven by the desire to create, backed by a resilience and stubborn tenacity that defines her artistic persona.
Her art practice merges studio practice, sustainability, and community, resulting in unique surrealist portraits fused with landscapes and mixed media works. By using unconventional "canvases" and materials such as bark, repurposed textiles, and even discarded paint, she challenges the definition of a painting. Sustainability is a cornerstone of her practice. She repurposes discarded, dried paint – or 'paint peels' – and transforms them into wearable and functional art. This approach not only reduces waste but also allows her to create unique pieces. Her involvement in her local art community through hosting creative events, art pop-ups, and painting classes further reflects her commitment to fostering connections. In her creative events and art markets, she welcomes other artists under the name "Southern Misfits," celebrating the creativity and spirit of the South.
In her journey as an emerging artist, Juleah understands the value of persistence and continuous creation. She believes that every artist, regardless of their stage in their career, should remain true to their artistic voice. She encourages others to focus on their art and enjoy the journey, even during the early, more challenging stages of their careers. Looking ahead, Juleah is excited about what the future holds. Juleahs' journey is a poignant reminder that success in any field, particularly in a creative one, is a process. Her story speaks volumes about tenacity, the importance of resilience, and embracing the journey rather than merely fixating on the destination. The most crucial lesson Edwards offers is the significance of persisting, a discipline that she identifies as an integral part of her success as an artist.
In the world of art, Edwards' story is one of resilience and determination. Her narrative emphasizes the importance of believing in oneself and the value of the journey over the destination. As she continues to forge her path, she maintains a humble perspective, reminding herself and others that everyone is merely at different stages of their career.
Juleah Edwards is a testament to the transformative power of art and the resilience of the human spirit. Her journey as a mixed media artist and art instructor offers valuable lessons in persistence, self-belief, and the power of community. And while she's excited about what the future holds, she's firmly grounded in the present, focusing on honing her craft and sharing her love for art with the world.
Juleah's Upcoming Classes in Suwanee:
Monkey Wrench Brewing, in partnership with JuleahXart, has announced on June 20th a unique "Summer Boat" Bob Ross themed paint class from 6:30 to 8:30 PM. Utilizing acrylic paint on a 16" x 20" canvas, attendees will follow along with guided instruction to create their very own masterpiece. The single ticket, priced at $45.00, includes not only the painting supplies but also a complimentary Monkey Wrench beer of your choice. To make the deal even better, a pair of tickets are priced at only $80!
Whether you're a fan of Bob Ross or simply enjoy the serenity of painting, this two-hour class is a splendid way to spend an evening.
Join Juleah for an exciting Seashell Decorating Family Class to be held on June 25th from 1:00 to 2:30 PM. Surely, a fun-filled family craft afternoon where your creativity is limitless! Whether you're a seasoned artist or a complete beginner, this class is perfect for you as all supplies including shells, Mod Podge, tissue paper, paint, brushes, and more will be provided. Tickets are available at a starting price of $15.00 and offer an excellent opportunity to bond with your family over a shared creative experience. For any queries, feel free to reach out at juleahxx@gmail.com. Juleah and team at Monkey Wrench Brewing look forward to seeing you there!
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