Julie Gilbert Pollard
About Julie Gilbert Pollard
Julie Gilbert Pollard is an esteemed artist based in Phoenix, Arizona, whose commitment to painterly realism has captivated audiences and collectors alike. Her work, which spans across oil, watercolor, gouache, and acrylic, is characterized by a unique interplay of color and form, translating her personal sense of reality into vibrant, emotive pieces. With a career that began over four decades ago, Pollard has remained steadfast in her dedication to capturing the profound allure of the natural world, often interwoven with elements of human life and architecture.
Pollard's artistic journey is rooted in a mostly self-taught background, supplemented by formal training, including life drawing and a pivotal workshop with Robert E. Wood, a prominent figure in the California Watercolor School. This foundation has allowed her to develop a distinctive style, where she begins each piece with transparent washes before layering more opaque strokes, a process that reflects both her technical proficiency and her emotional connection to her subjects. Her paintings are not merely representations; they are expressions of how she sees and feels the world around her.
Throughout her illustrious career, Pollard has shared her expertise through teaching, authoring, and publishing. Her contributions to the art community include three North Light Books and numerous instructional videos, alongside articles in prestigious publications like Plein Air Magazine and Watercolor Artist Magazine. Pollard has also been a sought-after instructor, teaching across the United States and internationally in Italy and Portugal. Her workshops continue to inspire and educate aspiring artists, reflecting her belief that artistic skills should evolve to match one's creative vision.
Pollard remains as vibrant as her paintings, with no intention of retiring. Her work continues to be celebrated in juried exhibitions and holds significant recognition, including awards for Best Impressionistic Painting and Best Use of Light & Color from the National Oil & Acrylic Painters’ Society. As she looks to broaden the market for her art, Pollard's legacy is one of enduring passion and dedication, promising even more enchanting creations for collectors and art enthusiasts worldwide.