Artist Statement

Julie Cook is a self-taught artist working primarily in acrylics and mixed media. A longtime resident of Madison Township, Julie draws deep inspiration from the beauty of God’s creation, which forms the foundation of her artistic expression. Her love for fitness often brings her outdoors, where she finds peace in nature—whether in the woods, meadows, or by waterfalls. Julie creates because God created first, seeking to reflect His handiwork in her own work. Her cityscapes, in contrast, capture the juxtaposition of urban life, just an hour away, exploring the tension between nature and human-made structures.

Julie enjoys experimenting with different paints, products, and materials to uncover new textures and techniques. She uses both traditional tools and unconventional items like scraps of wood, plastic, and recycled packaging. Her work is a continuous exploration of creativity, and she is grateful for the ability to express herself through art.

Julie’s artwork has been featured in several juried shows throughout Northeast Ohio, including solo exhibitions at Penitentiary Glen, Fairmount Art Center, Solon Center for the Arts, Holden Arboretum, and Cleveland Hopkins International Airport. She is also an artist at Stella’s Art Gallery in Willoughby, where her work is displayed in Studio 1.

Julie’s art is not only a personal expression but also a way to give back. A portion of the sale of each painting supports Global Advance Projects, an organization providing education and a safe environment for at-risk children on the Thailand/Burma border, where her daughter works. The organization also offers relief for victims of human trafficking. Julie’s art gives her a voice to advocate for the people they help, making a tangible difference while also bringing peace, joy, and contentment to others. Her commitment to this cause reflects the love and compassion she has for others, making her art a catalyst for positive change.