Magnolia mom and artist Julie Jacobson is having a big year.? In March, she (along with three other artists) opened Gray Sky Art Gallery?at the Interbay Worklofts, and?this month?her work is the featured art at West Elm’s downtown Seattle store as a part of their Local Artist Program. A graphic designer by trade, Jacobson says:
I?ve been selling my paintings for over 10 years in local boutiques and galleries. I?ve also worked as a graphic designer for 20 years, both at design firms and running my freelance design business. This background definitely plays a role in my art. Each painting is a study in composition, color, and story. I try to combine little bits of lots of things into my pieces while still keeping it simple and clean. I like to layer hand drawn illustrations, small paintings I?ve done, my kids’ art, and found objects into one cohesive piece. I find it intriguing to combine these things and have them serve as a reminder that interest, beauty and amusement can be found in everyday objects.
Jay Battistelli, downtown Seattle West Elm’s?Associate Manager explained the Seattle Local Artist Program to Magnolia Voice:
West Elm has?created a space within?our store?for?a local?artist?to display and sell?their work each month.?We really want to to be able to reach out here in our own community.?West Elm doesn’t take a percentage of the sales- all money goes to the artist.
Right now they are booked up with local artists through January 2016. Pop into West Elm (?2201 Westlake Ave Ste 100) now through?the end of July?to see or purchase Julie’s work, or head to?Gray Sky Gallery for more information. Want to learn how to make art? You’re in luck! Gray Sky offers classes for youth and adults.