We recently connected with Julia Shaw and have shared our conversation below.
Julia , looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Have you ever had an amazing boss, mentor or leader leading you? Can you us a story or anecdote that helps illustrate why this person was such a great leader and the impact they had on you or their team?
The best boss I ever had isn’t just a boss; he’s my father, Thomas Sorensen. Born and raised in a small city in Denmark, my father’s journey to success is a testament to his unwavering determination. He saw opportunities beyond the horizon, and with sheer hard work and dedication, he made the bold move to America to craft a better future for himself and our family. His chosen path led him to the furniture business, and growing up surrounded by the world of design instilled in me a lifelong passion for creativity. What sets my father apart as a remarkable leader is his unshakable belief in pursuing one’s passions, making a living by following dreams. Inspired by his wisdom, I pursued my education, earning a BA from the University of San Diego and an MFA from the San Francisco Art Institute. My journey eventually led me to Honolulu, Hawaii, where my husband and I continue our art careers and contribute to the family business, where art, design, and furniture have woven together to create a fulfilling and delightful life for us.
Julia , love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
Hello, I’m Julia Sørensen Shaw, a first-generation American from Reno, Nevada. My Danish roots run deep, with both my parents originating from the small Danish towns of Kolding and Randers. Danish was my first language and we were fortunate enough to be able to travel back to Denmark twice a year when I was growing up which made me very accustomed to the culture.
My artistic journey began to take shape during my college years at the University of San Diego. Initially, I delved into the world of installation art, captivated by the concept of how art can occupy and interact with physical space. I explored the integration of our bodies within these immersive art experiences, where we could move around, and at times, even animate the artwork itself. My preferred mediums were mulberry paper, latex, and textiles, where color and texture played pivotal roles in my creations. This fascination accompanied me through my graduate studies in San Francisco, where I introduced sculptural elements such as deconstructed chairs and tables. However, I faced a challenge as my large-scale, unconventional art pieces proved less practical for residential purposes, which limited their marketability.
Upon completing my studies at the San Francisco Art Institute (SFAI), I embarked on a new chapter in Honolulu, Hawaii. Here, I joined my family’s business, INspiration Interiors, a furniture retail store and designer program specializing in modern European furniture. It was during this time that my art started to morph onto canvas, a more practical and marketable art form. My artistic journey now intertwines with my role in sourcing the latest furniture trends from around the world for our store. Simultaneously, I create vibrant paintings to complement our extensive design projects. INspiration Interiors offers clients the unique opportunity to access our designer services and order custom artwork through my husband, a professional photographer, or myself, particularly in the realm of abstract art. My ultimate goal is to assist individuals in transforming their living spaces into true homes and places of profound personal meaning.
What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?
Being an artist holds a special place in my heart, as it allows me to channel my creativity and emotions into tangible expressions. What truly resonates with me is the profound connection I make with people through my art. It’s an indescribable feeling when clients reach out to share that their homes have been forever transformed by my work. To know that I’ve left a lasting impression in their lives, that my art has become an integral part of their daily environment, is incredibly rewarding. It’s a testament to the power of art to touch people’s souls and enrich their spaces with a sense of beauty, meaning, and personal connection. These moments remind me of the profound impact that art can have on our lives and reinforce my passion for what I do.
What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?
While my academic journey undoubtedly provided me with a valuable foundation, I’ve come to realize that unlearning can be just as crucial as learning. It’s not about discarding the knowledge gained but evolving beyond rigid constructs. Today, I hold a stronger belief than ever that as a creator, it’s essential to embrace the freedom to simply create. Art doesn’t always have to be conceptual or carry profound meaning. For me, it’s about the pure act of moving my body in the studio and shedding the cacophony of white noise in my mind. It’s about unrestrained expression, an unfiltered release, and the liberty to explore uncharted artistic realms. This unlearning process has been liberating, allowing me to reconnect with the raw, untamed essence of creativity.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.juliahsorensen.com
- Instagram: juliashawstudios
Image Credits
Kimber Shaw (my amazing husband)