Naturevisions

Julie Steyer
Artist statement

My work contains the seed of an idea that I strive to express: the inner patterns and rhythms of our lives relate to the outer natural world, reflecting the interconnectedness of all living things.

My work has evolved over the years from botanical illustration to nature abstractions and the art form of the mandala, or sacred circle. I work in acrylic, mixed media collage, watercolor, and colored pencil. My intent is to express light, color and energy and portray it through natural forms.

My influences are meditation, nature, and the art of many cultures. The symbols of nature are all around to be discovered. Often a symbol finds me and I am led into exploring a new world of designs, colors, and images. The mandala form of the circle lends itself to exploring new forms of symmetry and balance. I enjoy working with a variety of media. The colored pencil work is meditative and deliberate. The watercolor and collage develop spontaneously, using elements from a variety of sources, like handmade and decorative papers, and watercolors and prints. The acrylic works involve many layers.

I value the spirit of play and exploration in my work, along with the element of structure. I seek a balance of intention and intuition. I may begin with an idea and let it evolve, or follow my intuition as it develops into conscious form. The theme or focus of a particular piece often evolves through the process of creating, along with my current interests or travels into nature and wilderness. A moment of completion is when all the design elements feel in balance and harmony.