I’m in the studio today, yesterday, the day before–for weeks, it seems–working on a slew of commissioned paintings. Each email I receive for commissioned work, I am taken back and count my blessings all over again. You see, when I went to school to study art, I had a full ride art scholarship but had to forfeit it when I chose to serve a mission for 18 months. When I returned for my final year of school, they told me that they would reward me double that scholarship to study exercise science. Were they struggling to find exercise science majors? Who knows. But I had the grades and the lump of money was hard to say no to, so I took it. Chris already had a stack of student loan debt and my scholarship would cover our complete educations, plus some.
At the time, as poor, newly-wedded college students it seemed like a no-brainer. I put away my paint brushes and started studying chemistry and anatomy and for a long time, I have regretted that decision–choosing money over what I was really passionate about. I would have never dreamed a few years later I would have a studio in my house and a list of commissioned paintings lined up. As it turns out, what I am really passionate about wasn’t going to slip away even if I did turn my back on it once upon a time.
In a word, I’m grateful.
The painting pictured above have been commissioned and are spoken for. If you are interested in commissioning a painting, send an email to julia@chrislovesjulia.com and we can discuss size, colors and all that jazz.
Our wood grain Shaker cabinet fronts were designed for busy, high-traffic homes like ours. Clad with durable textured thermofoils, this line is compatible with Sektion, Akurum, Godmorgon, and Besta cabinets from IKEA. It's the perfect, practical way to add the warmth of wood to all the rooms of your home.
We have teamed up with Loloi to create a line of rugs that are as affordable as they are beautiful. This collection houses a great mix of traditional and modern rugs, in cottage-y colorways, as well as vintage-inspired beauties that you’ll want to roll out in every room.
We partnered with Stuga on a line of hardwood floors — The Ingrid is really livable, and the color is very neutral. It doesn’t lean warm or cool, it’s that just right in-between. We have really loved putting it everywhere in our house. It’s the best jumping-off point for design, no matter your interior style. In addition to being beautiful, Ingrid is really durable — we have three kids, and we always have a home construction project going on. Ingrid stands up to it all.
SHop all
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Get Around
Make yourself right at home
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Projects
Lifestyle
Gift Guides
All Posts
Shop
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So gorgeous! You’ll be receiving an email from me as soon as I find the perfect spot for one of your paintings :)
I have had a few of your paintings pinned for months, but didn’t follow the links back to your blog until just today! This blog (and your work) is such a delight!
I’m a painter too, and I love finding other artist’s blogs, and sharing in their joy and frustration. Keep up the lovely work!
Your pieces are absolutely gorgeous! I love them so much! :)
Gorgeous!!! So so fantastic. I have the painting I bought from you up. It is in the room outside of my bedroom, and I leave my door open so I can see it from my bed! :) I have some finishing touches to add to the room, and I’ll send you a pic!
I’m so proud of you, sister. You inspire me every day. Keep painting (and I will, too :)