Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Julianne Marangi. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Julianne, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Getting that first client is always an exciting milestone. Can you talk to us about how you got your first customer who wasn’t a friend, family, or acquaintance?

I was working as a server at a pool at a gorgeous iconic hotel in south beach called the Delano. I had a guest look at my website and ask me if I could paint the pool setting there of the Delano. I gave him a price and he told me “I still want the painting but know ur worth and charge more. Get back to me tomorrow with a higher price please.” I couldn’t believe it. I was shocked but I did as he said and after that painting sale, I ended up getting 36 other commissions for that same painting. By the 36th one I felt like I could paint that piece with my eyes closed. That same client, Bruce, to this day orders my hand painted, one of a kind, scarves (pack of 10) and as he travels around the world he gives out my scarves. He sends me pictures of the sweet flight attendant he bonded with, the chef Africa, the gondola driver in Venice, wearing my scarves, posting all fun with a big smile there face.. I’m forever grateful for people who love my work and use it as gifts to make others feel special.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

Inspired by Miamis vibrant energy, Julianne Marangi creates unique art and fashion that embody the city’s spirit. After earning her art degree at in 2011 and relocating to Miami Beach, she has explored various mediums, including canvas, fabric, silk, and recently, furniture. Her work ranges from hand painted silk dresses that are all one of a kind, to hand painted denim jackets, as well as portraits and other painting on canvas. Julianne’s creations, celebrated for their bright, vivacious colors and patterns, bring to life the essence of miami, whether through popular personalized jackets or Shinto silk garments crafted using ancient Japanese techniques.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

As an artist, I am always pivoting with what I am creating. Ive had people tell me I need to pick one direction and focus on just that, but I don’t feel that is the way for me. I love going through different phases and learning to work in new unique ways with different tools and materials. Since most of my work is commissioned, people ask me for different things so I’m always challenged and growing as a creative. Right now I’m obsessed with making one of a kind purses from recycled materials. I will stay up some nights till 3 am cutting out flowers with paint all up my arms and I love it.

What else should we know about how you took your side hustle and scaled it up into what it is today?

Obviously Covid changed a lot of lives, but having the Delano close down, I was so sad but then I ended up making the most money in one year than I had ever made in my life, being a stay at home artist! I couldn’t believe the amount of painting commissions I was getting at such a troubling time in the world but I think my paintings brought people joy. A lot of the paintings were of pets, but I’m an animal lover so I quite enjoyed it. :) Since then I just took my art business and ran with it. From my Commissioned detailed work on canvas replicating people’s faces, or being more free with the fabric dying/purse making, everything I create is an expression of the positive energy I feel in my soul.

Contact Info:

• Website: Juliannemarangi.net
• Instagram: JulieAndArt
• Facebook: Julianne Marangi
• Linkedin: Julianne Marangi