In Julia Jenkins’ paintings, realism becomes a gateway to something more poetic—where portraits are infused with quiet magic and imagined worlds.
Trained across continents and exhibited widely, her work reflects both discipline and a deeply personal sense of wonder.
We spoke with Julia to explore the ideas and influences behind her evocative portraits.
First Strokes
Do you remember what initially pulled you toward painting rather than other forms of art?
Anytime I went to a museum, the painting wing would be my mission to see. Seeing the magic that artists can create with oil paint made me want to start painting.
Was there a particular moment when painting started to feel essential to you?
I had been an artist my entire life, but pursued graphic design to have “job security” when I was in university, when I was 20 I was gifted oil paints and I never looked back.
How did you learn to paint in the early stages — formally, independently, or through observation?
I am predominantly self taught, i watched a lot of YouTube tutorials and did master copies. I got to study at studio escalier in France for 6 weeks in 2018, and 8 weeks in early 2020.
What kept you painting before you had a clear direction or audience?
I had many painting ideas that I wanted to capture and each painting lead me into the next.
Layers & Choices
What attracts you to oil painting specifically?
I love how it blends so softly.
How do you manage drying time and layering?
I work on several paintings at once, so I have time to let each layer dry but always being able to continue working on something.
What impression has Artify left on you, and why?
I love the brushes that artify makes and that they work with artists directly.
Have better materials changed your relationship with painting?
Yes! The small artify brushes are great for Intricate details and sharp edges. I like to use a variety of flats and rounds, so the sets are perfect.
What advice would you give when choosing brushes or paints?
Choose high quality it will last longer.
Reflection & Horizons
How has your definition of “good work” evolved?
Yes, I used to define it as skill based, now I define good work for me personally is something that illicits an emotional response, is creative and beautiful.
What does maturity in painting mean to you at this stage?
I think at this stage I’ve matured in painting in the sense that 10 years ago I wanted to “get good” at painting realistic, but now my desire is to further build narrative, symbolism and construct over-all moods in a piece.
What do you believe matters most in painting?
At the end of every painting that I felt wasn’t good enough, I had the determination to do better in the next. I think painting is a long game and not an overnight success. It’s taught me to slow down and trust the process.
What do you hope other artists take away from your journey?
If you are hard on yourself as an artist like me, trust in yourself and your voice! Our Art is beautiful and unique and it touch someone somewhere, and that’s by sharing and putting our work out there. i hope other aspiring artists see that everyone has a unique voice and to feel emboldened to express and share that within their artwork!
Are there any techniques, themes, or materials you want to dive deeper into?
I want to dive deeper into a theme about finding magic in the mundane little worlds that we tend to look over
Julia Jenkins’ work reminds us that realism does not limit imagination—it deepens it.
Within each portrait lies a world just beyond reach, waiting to be felt as much as seen.
And her journey through that world is far from over
To see more of Julia's work and follow her creative journey, visit:
Julia Jenkins's linktree
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