We had the good fortune of connecting with Julianna Poldi and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Julianna, you love what you do. It’s clear to anyone who knows you. Why and what about your work do you love so much?
I love facilitating the freedom, liberation and joy that abstract painting brings. I love creating a sense of empowerment through accomplishment and professionalism. I love the independence and unlimited possibilities that come with discovering one’s creative impulse. What I do is like play and yet, it is profoundly transformational. It’s all about the connection. I love providing a safe space for students to explore their creative potential. Witnessing students transform as their confidence grows, and as their paintings reveal their unique mark in a masterful way, is pure joy.

 

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
It’s exciting to witness the transformation that happens in the lives of my students. After 20 years of abstract painting I realized it doesn’t need to be so difficult. Discovering that I could share my years of experience with beginners or struggling painters, I started offering painting workshops at my Canyon Road studio in Santa Fe, NM in 2010. The quick response was unexpected and led me to offer multi-day intensives across the country and internationally. Bringing together painters from all over and sharing their creative journey is fun! It enables me to utilize a variety of tools I’ve gathered along the way to inspire, and facilitate the growth of emerging artists. The spontaneous creation and execution of my first group intensive workshop in Provence changed my expectations of what I imagined teaching painting to be. It was a stretch and a challenge not knowing what the place would provide in regards to studio space or a painting area. It all came together organically with the help of everyone involved. Painters grow within a community of support and shared insights. We need the dialogue and feedback from our peers to support our process. Without witness we can easily doubt ourselves and go through a myriad of lower emotions. This leads me to my focus today, which includes online ZOOM workshops to stay connected and also to establish recognition for emerging artists through online galleries.

Any great local spots you’d like to shoutout?
My favorite places while living in Palm Springs are the many hiking trails. I would suggest hiring a trail guide and exploring with a group if you are a novice. Araby trail is close to my studio and offers an uphill workout and stunning views of the city.  At Indian Canyon you pay to enter into the reservation where you will see the indigenous palm grove, a waterfall and have the opportunity for great hikes. If you take a short drive to Mission Creek Preserve off highway 62, or further exploration into Joshua Tree Natural Park, don’t forget to stop at Pappy and Harriet’s on your way back for great live music, beverages and grub in an old western movie setting…way cool. The Palm Springs Museum of Art is not to be missed. Their schedule of events is always top notch and rewarding. For great local vegan cuisine try Chef Tanya’s Kitchen, or Fresh Juice Bar for your organic juice fix. The Desert Art Center in downtown Palm Springs is located in the original school house of Palm Springs. They offer a nice selection of arts and crafts from local artisans.  They also offer a variety of art classes. Grab a cup of Joe across the street at Koffi’s flagship location where you will find a large courtyard great for people watching.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would love to give a shout out to Shanda Sumptner and HeartCore Leadership! Without coaching and leadership I would be like my students prior to signing up for class with me, lost in world of unknown potential and limited expression always feeling and knowing there is more but not knowing how to get there. I have taken detours along the way with developing my online business but great leaders don’t give up on you. Shanda Sumptner has carried her cross and generously shares her knowledge of online business strategies in a way that supports anyone willing to put in the work to become an empowered successful entrepreneur. Having the foresight and knowledge that our world needs to shift and pivot to the online market. HeartCore Leadership is a life changing experience that I am proud to say I graduated from this past January. Knowing what’s important and keeping your intention on showing up in excellence for others is key. As artists we can be isolated to the point of not knowing how to be a leader. Artists are meant to lead, we are the visionaries of the future and sharing our gifts is essential. Thank you HeartCore Leadership for teaching me the value of Leadership and standing in excellence as a unique expression of Creation.

Website: AbstractArtCoach.com
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Linkedin: Julianna Poldi
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Other: jpoldi.com