the creative life

  • Just Starting

    Fall is just starting here in North Carolina. The gorgeous reds and yellows are finally starting to appear. This is my favorite time of year! And, after our road trip north this fall, I feel so lucky to be able to experience this season twice. But, before I share more, I want to welcome new…

  • Shifting

    There seem to be major changes in the air which is why I decided to name this week’s painting and post “Shifting.” Have you noticed it, too? And, I’m not just talking about the political climate although that certainly is (finally) shifting, too. Thank Goddess! Before I continue, please let me share the focus and…

  • 2020 Studio Sale

    It’s time for the 2020 Studio Sale here at Julie Holmes Studio. Earlier this week, I notified my email subscribers about this sale. It’s exciting to report that several of my paintings have already sold, thanks to loyal subscribers. Woohoo! Before I continue on I want to welcome new subscribers (welcome!) and remind everyone what…

  • Ratatouille To Be

    Rather than “Ratatouille To Be,” I guess I could have called this “Eggplants Unite” or “Aubergines Forever!” But I decided to make Ratatouille with these eggplants and I just had to include that word in this painting’s title. Here’s why…oops…before the why…let’s cover the what. What’s this about? So if you’re new here, welcome! Each…

  • Casualty: figure painting

    Due to the pandemic, open figure sessions are not an option. That’s why the name of this painting is “Casualty.” However, this painting is one of my favorite figure paintings from a recent open session. Therefore, I decided to include it in my 2020 series called “Favorite Things.” In the Favorite Things series, I share…