Today we’d like to introduce you to Juli Cady Ryan.
Hi Juli, so excited to have you on the platform. So, before we get into questions about your work life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today.
I started painting over 29 years ago. I was at a crossroads in my life because my three children were all in school, and I needed to decide if I wanted to go back and finish my degree to be a therapist. While I was thinking it over, I decided to pick up painting, something I had never done before. I got a few books on acrylic painting and bought some supplies, and just began! I was short on skill but had a big imagination! I began painting almost every day and realized I loved it! After about a year, I decided to try and sell one of my paintings. Once it sold, I was hooked! My art took a turn toward activism when my daughter was diagnosed with mental health issues and, years later my sons. My whimsical art began sharing my family’s struggles and hopes.
I have come a long way since those early days! I’ve shown my art in galleries, have an Etsy shop, and sell my art online. I actually have collectors who supported me from the beginning and are still buying today! I have sold my artwork internationally.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The biggest struggle for me with my art has been trying to become skilled enough to be able to share all the ideas I had in my mind! It has taken a lot of hard work! I am also grateful to all the art teachers who share their craft online, and I have learned so much from them! I continue to learn new things and keep getting more skilled!
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
My art continues to share my family’s mental health journey, but I have also branched out into other subjects important to me-the environment, racial justice, and equality. I want my art to be colorful and joyful but also meaningful! I think what makes my art stand out is the meaning, the emotions. People seem to really connect and feel what I am painting. Many times, I have had people contact me and tell me what my art means to them. There is nothing better for an artist than that! I do have paintings that are just made for color and joy, too, like my most recent hummingbird painting.
What’s next?
My plans going forward are to continue to learn and grow! I am always up for new techniques, and I challenge myself daily! I am looking into doing more exhibits now that Covid is under better control. Until then, I continue to let my imagination run wild on canvas and hope to inspire more people. I hope anyone with mental health issues or is struggling in any way can relate to my art, and in some way, it makes them feel less alone.
Contact Info:
- Website: http://www.juliryansart.com
- Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/julicadyryan
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/julicadyryan
