Julia Veenstra
Graduating with a degree in
Illustration, Julia has continued to grow and expand in her painting. As a wife
and mother of five, her family gives her great inspiration and joy. Recently
in her travels and time spent as a missionary in Africa she has developed a love
for the images of the continent.
"There is never a day when out and
about in Tanzania or Kenya that I don't see a new and inviting image. There will
always be something to paint!"
People and their surroundings are what
attract Julia, whether from her travels or from her homeland of Canada.
Particular images capture her and will 'demand to be painted.'
"I am
fascinated by faces of Africa. They reflect a person's inner being and
communicate so much without words. I also love the colour! Even in a dry dusty
place as Africa there is a rainbow of lush greens, flowers, handwoven red and
purple cloths of the Maasai, along with the vibrant wraps of the various tribes
that stand out against the dry browns of the landscapes. Everyone would be taken
with the sights."
Julia works in watercolour and acrylics and the mood
reflects the medium. An acrylic to portray the brilliant hues or a watercolour
to share whimsey and passion. Occasionally she will dabble in collage…when the
mood hits.
Children often attract her attention. Especially in her
homeland where she raised her children for most of their lives. However, in her
time in Africa all ages of people and their plights have drawn her and she
resolves to translate them onto paper.
Recently she has developed a
project in partnership with Wild Hope Ministires in Tanzania to work with
Artisans from amongst the Maasai people. The women she trains were handpicked
for their skills and work with her on designs she has created. "These women are
skilled and take my designs to the next level. It is great fun to work with them
and see what they create." The products are sold in Africa with hopes to expand
to the North American markets. "It is a joy to help these women use their
talents to create income for their families. The situation is desparate and the
income well needed."
Julia has completed her first childrens book,
working with author Charlie Campbell of California, due to be released in early
2007. She has held various art shows and her work is hung in private collections
in many countries across the globe.
"It is a gift of God, my painting
and I truly wish to glorify the true and master artist in my work"
To order or make inquiries about the artwork and project craft items
please send an email to julia@juliaveenstra.com.
We will reply with
costs and shipping information and a great big THANK YOU!!!
