We were lucky to catch up with Julie Gittemeier recently and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Julie, thanks for joining us today. What were some of the most unexpected problems you’ve faced in your career and how did you resolve those issues?

When I began creating, I started with epoxy, or resin. I had no idea just how precise everything had to be to make the perfect concoction. Everything has to be done in a timely manner, and in a climate controlled atmosphere for pieces to cure.
It took me awhile to grasp the temperature aspect because it varied from piece to piece(large and small) , deep casting, even different pigmentation could throw something off. At times, I felt like a chemist lol! Once I got the temperature down,there were other little factors such as stirring the resin too fast, could create bubbles and air pockets. Everything has to be measured precisely, the ratio just right.
When I make sculptures, those are completely done free handed, so the timing and temp has to be impeccable for the resin to be shaped, or molded.

Julie, 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?

I am an abstract mixed media artist, but I wouldn’t say I’m confined to that. I am always learning and evolving. When I began my art journey, it was during the Pandemic. I had come across someone on social media working with resin, and I was intrigued. Desperate to find a hobby or something to pass the time, during a time when the world shut down, I began researching. I read and watched multiple videos and tutorials, and you know what, it still didn’t prepare me. Everything always seems so easy when you’re watching a video of someone do it. Why is that?? I started making accented resin charcuterie boards and coasters. Once I got comfortable with those, I moved to trays and other items and then started creating large wall art, primarily out of resin. But I didn’t stop there, I crossed over to painting with acrylics and oil paint to see if that creative spark I had as a kid would come back to me. It did. Diving back into painting, gave me such a peaceful feeling. A feeling I hadnt had in a long time, as a stay at home mom with two small boys.
I began submitting my wall art to galleries to have the opportunity to be seen. I talked with local boutiques to get some small items in their storefronts. Things really seemed to take off from there.
It’s been four years, and I am still just as grateful. I’ve been so honored to showcase work in the most amazing galleries, and even curate a couple art shows. It’s been a wild ride thus far and I’ve met so many inspiring people along the way. I’m excited to where it takes me.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

The most rewarding aspect would have to be the absolute joy that I’ve rediscovered within myself. The overall feeling of calm when painting is reminiscent of when I was a child drawing or painting. I love getting a blank canvas and seeing where my mind takes me. It’s very therapeutic.

Is there mission driving your creative journey?

My goal is to create pieces for myself and for others that can stir up emotions. Have something touch someone’s heart in a way they hadn’t before. We get so caught up in today’s world, with technology, that it’s refreshing to just take in something off of a canvas and let it cultivate in your mind.
Sometimes when we look at paintings or photographs, it can evoke a response from our childhood that makes us smile. A feeling of innocence. I want to do just that, with my artwork. I want to create a space where people feel peaceful and happy. They immerse themselves in the painting, being fully present. No worries of the past or future.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.sapphireandiceart.com
• Instagram: Https://www.instagram.com/sapphire_and_ice_art

Image Credits

Danielle Ambry Photography