Painting the Pacific Northwest: Julie Devine
Tammara Stroud Design has been working with Julie Devine since 2015, collaborating on unique and original art pieces for clients’ homes. Recently, we sat down with Julie to learn more about her inspiring journey—from her career in tech to becoming a recognized painter in the Pacific Northwest and beyond. Her story is one of passion, transformation, and the pursuit of creativity.
TSD: Tell us a little about yourself. How did you get started in your art practice?
JD: I've loved drawing since childhood, but it wasn't until later in my career that I pursued art seriously. After earning a master’s degree in English Literature at the University of Washington, I settled into a career in technical communications at Microsoft. I knew that eventually art would play a larger role in my life, and one day I bought some canvas and oil paints and dove in. I quickly built a strong home practice, which I fortified with classes and workshops at the Gage Academy of Art in Seattle. From the beginning, I was very serious. I never saw myself as a hobbyist, but as a professional in training. My art began to sell as I developed my skills, and my art career grew.
TSD: How would you describe your artistic style? Has it evolved over time?
JD: I like to experiment and over time I have created my own style. I like exploring the area between representation and abstraction. I’d say my work has components of impressionism, post-impressionism, modernism, and abstract expressionism.
TSD: What materials and mediums do you primarily work with, and why?
JD: I work exclusively with oil paint. Oil paint is rich and luxurious—it takes a while to dry and it gives me flexibility. I like painting “wet-into-wet,” which means allowing edges to meet and blend in a softer, more organic manner. When I was younger, two trips with my family left a lasting impression on me. The first was in California at the Huntington Museum, where I saw Thomas Gainsborough’s iconic oil painting, Blue Boy. The paint was so lush and fluid, the fabrics of the boy’s clothing glowed, and the background landscape was loose and romantic. The second, was a trip to Russia where I had the opportunity to see the Impressionist and Post-Impressionist Collection at the Hermitage. I had only 15 minutes to take in this stunning collection. I was floored by the way the impressionist works shimmered with small marks and how boldly the Post-Impressionist works were constructed with shapes and colors. Both early experiences shaped my understanding of painting.
TSD: Who are some of your biggest influences or mentors in the art world? Do any local artists or communities shape your practice?
JD: I’ve always been inspired by historical painters like Manet, Diebenkorn, Cézanne, and Joan Mitchell. Joan Mitchell, in particular, along with Louisa McElwain, a Southwestern artist, have had a profound impact on my own art. Their boldness and willingness to push the boundaries of painting resonate with me.
Devine’s work at our Windermere Residence
TSD: How does Seattle and the PNW influence your work? Are there specific places that inspire your creations?
JD: The light in Seattle has a huge influence on my work. The gray skies here create a soft glow, with less contrast than what I was used to in California, where the sun is more constant. In the Seattle light, I developed an appreciation for subtle color shifts. I’ve also come to appreciate golds and yellows. I find them a quick antidote to the heavy gray days. The landscape is also endlessly inspiring here in the PNW. I love painting the Cascades and capturing the curves and intricacies of the Pacific Northwest mountain terrain.
Devine’s work at our Madrona Residence
TSD: You’re currently collaborating with Tammara Stroud Design on a project. Artwork plays a pivotal role in shaping the overall atmosphere and aesthetic of a home. Could you share what it's like to create custom pieces for private spaces? How do you approach the process of drawing inspiration for pieces that are tailored to each individual's unique vision and environment?
JD: I love creating artwork for individuals and their homes. Often, clients are drawn to a piece I’ve done before, which turns the process into a three-way-collaboration between them, me, and Tammara. I strive to create a work that supports Tammara’s design and connects with the client’s vision. I want the client to connect with and love the art they live with. To provide some structure, I always write up a contract.
Devine’s work at our Green Lake Residence
TSD: What advice would you give to emerging artists, especially those trying to build a career in a city like Seattle?
JD: You need to put your time in to figure out who you are and what your voice is. While this process can be slow and evolving, it’s essential to put yourself out there along the way. Sharing your work allows you to receive feedback and see how others respond.
TSD: What’s the best way for people to connect with you or view your work? Do you have any upcoming events or social media platforms you'd like to share?
JD: I have an upcoming exhibition, March 1st-31st, called “Yakima River Canyon” at Gallery One in Ellensburg, WA. I also have a solo exhibition called “Alpine Dreaming’” at the Yuan Ru Arts Center that will be on display from May 24th-June13th. My work is also displayed at the Seattle Art Museum, JDS Gallery, Smith and Valley Gallery and Yuan Ru Art Center. You can find me at julie-devine.com and on Instagram @JulieDevineStudio.
Devine’s work at our Shore Club Residence