Julia Rymer is the most recent member to join COCA. Her abstract paintings explore nature, science and color. Keep reading to learn more about her and the work she creates.Please give us a brief bio of who you are and where you're from.
I am originally from Colorado. I attended the University of Denver for my BFA in Art, and then received my MFA in Painting from Pratt Institute in New York in 2004. I taught art at the college level for 5 years in Colorado before moving to the San Francisco Bay Area in 2009.
What is your primary medium and process?
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| Apex, mixed media on paper |
My work includes a variety of media, but mostly I work with watermedia- like watercolor and gouache- and drawing materials on paper. I also use acrylic and canvas or wood panel.
How long have you been painting?
As long as I can remember I have been an artist, but I discovered watercolor painting in high school. I had originally thought I would be a fashion designer or illustrator, but in college fell in love with abstract painting, and, well, that was that.
How do you describe your style?
My work is colorful, organic, fluid, gestural, at times formalist, and abstract. I have been told it is very feminine and whimsical as well!
What inspires you to keep motivated?
The need to "art"- because I think of art a verb as well as a noun. The urge to create is very primal for me, it is simply something I must do. That instinct keeps me creating.
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| Afterthought II, mixed media on paper |
Everyday is different in the studio. It is always a journey, and often I have no idea where I am headed. I know I can be an artist my entire life, because it will never bore me.
Who are your favorite artists past or present?
Joan Mitchell, Roxy Paine, Paul Klee, Sara Westover, Michelle Armas, Amy Metier, and Spencer Finch.
You can learn more about Julia Rymer on her website: www.juliarymer.com. You can also check out her Etsy shop, or purchase prints on Artify.it.
