Artist takes inspiration from her life and work
I FIRST met Julia Ogden when I was researching an article about the Fun-Loving Art Group in Heywood.
Julia is the group’s resident artist and impressed me greatly with her infectious enthusiasm. I arranged to meet her again to find out more.
While sipping her camomile tea in Bean, Number One Riverside, she explained that she had always liked art.
She told me: “My dad was a carpet designer, he was very old school, filling in all the squares on paper.
“My mum and dad encouraged me and I loved art all the way through school.”
Julia went on to tell me that it was actually her Sixth Form tutors at Huddersfield New College who really inspired her, adding ‘they were amazing.’
After school, Julia went to study at Leeds College of Art for her foundation course.
She decided to take up illustration because, as she told me, she loved English as well.
Julia studied illustration at Edinburgh College of Art and then gained a masters degree at Brighton University.
After working as a professional artist for several years, Julia then completed a teacher training qualification at Bolton University.
She said: “I now teach all ages and continue with my art practice as a painter, printmaker and illustrator.”
Julia has a studio in Hebden Bridge and sells her work through her online shop, as well as exhibiting in galleries all over the country and taking on commissions.
Her work is far-ranging, including giclée prints, screen prints, homeware, cards and notebooks, bags and, of course, her original artwork.
In creating her art, Julia takes her inspiration from where she lives and works, which is especially evident in her atmospheric landscapes that convey the emotion.
Julia is an inspiring example to all young people who have artistic talent.
She is using her considerable talent as a working artist, diversifying from acrylic landscapes on canvas to beautifully created bird prints on greeting cards, from creating commissioned illustrations to teaching children in after-school art clubs.
She added: “I began hosting children’s craft parties last year.
“It seemed the perfect thing to do, as I already teach projects in schools and run an art club every Saturday for children.
“Usually a parent will contact me and tell me about their child’s favourite things.
“I then plan a craft activity around this for the party and also decorate my studio.”