I want each cyanotype painting to be familiar yet slightly outside of time.”Ĭyanotype is a camera-less photographic printing process invented in 1842 by scientist and astronomer, Sir John Hirschel, which produces a cyan-blue print when a non-toxic chemistry-coated surface is exposed to sunlight. I am most interested in creating objects that feel both beautiful and mysterious. Each composition starts as a blue and white print onto watercolor paper and then I paint in many layers of color pigment. Most works have several species fused into one composition, often to the point where the exact plants depicted are open to interpretation. “In these works on paper, I approach each growing thing with equal importance regardless of whether it is a weed, rare species, wildflower, or cultivated flower. The pair of arched top works were based on the shape of the windows on the 3rdfloor (including in the Curio room), and the round windows with octagon shaped openings on the 4th floor inspired the tondo frame. The Egyptian Revival room was filled with inspirational highlights, which include the patterns and patina on the handmade gold frames. The plants that populate each work are featured in elements within the house such as the etched glass windows and porch details, the foxglove garden, the glorious grounds, the historic greenhouse, and floral patterns seen on various surfaces throughout each floor.
Early on in the process, Julia invited Gerald Kurian to collaborate on the exhibition to craft frames that would suit this this unique setting. After documenting hundreds of architectural features, plants, changing foliage, seasonal light and the 360 degree views from the windows and porch she set out to create art that could feel at home here. When the Lombardi family invited Julia to create this body of work for the 3rd floor of their spectacular home, it was thrilling for her to meander each room and make notes, photographs, and sketches. Having no idea one existed in reality, she was awestruck when walking along the Croton Aqueduct trail in 2019 shecame upon the house peeking through the trees. Many years ago, Julia dreamt about a pink octagonal house and it was such a vivid dream she never forgot that vision. Every element of these framed works on paper was inspired by the Armour-Stiner Octagon House and surrounding gardens.
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