The Journal Diaries- Julie's Sketchbook

The Journal Diaries is a blog segment where we get a sneak peek into the journals, notebooks, organizers, and diaries from people all over the world. (Click here for past posts.) My special guest today is Julie based in Florida, USA.

- Hi Julie! Tell us a little more about yourself.
I love illustrating and do it everyday. My name is Julie Lehite, I'm a mom and a wife to a beautiful little family here in Miramar, FL.

- When did you first discover your love for drawing and painting?
I honestly don't remember a time when I didn't love drawing and painting. My earliest memories involve creating or appreciating art in some way.

- How has your artistic style changed throughout the years?
My style has definitely loosened up throughout the years. Looking back at earlier works, I see so much tension in my lines. I have become more concerned with expression and communication through art.

- How would you describe your style now?
I would say it's experimental. When I feel too comfortable creating a piece, I try something new. I enjoy the uncertainty of the outcome.

- When do you find yourself creating art the most, and how often?

I love sketching when I travel. It helps me remember experiences in a way nothing else can. When I'm not traveling I create art daily out of my home studio.

- What would you say is your favorite medium to work with, and why?
My absolute favorite is gouache. I love the way it can be easily manipulated by water. It's so simple to use, it's vibrant and it dries quickly.

- What (or who) influences your artwork the most?
Since I am not very good with words, I'm most influenced by writers. Good lyrics or poetry definitely inspire me. The female figure is my favorite subject when it comes to illustrating inspiring words. There is so much expression in the human figure and so much to explore. I will never grow bored of rendering it.

- Do you have a favorite type of paper or notebook that you use for just everyday artwork?
I'm a fan of Strathmore products ever since I discovered they're mixed media sketchbooks with the flexible suede covers.

- Do you keep a daily journal as well?
I treat instagram like a journal to make my daily entries. I collect them in a virtual book I often flip through called #julesketchbook. It's a great point of reference for my work and the feedback from viewers is priceless.

- What is your favorite art tool, supply, or product(s) at the moment?
I'm loving the pigma micron pens by Sakura. I also like using palette knives instead of brushes and toned paper.

- Other than drawing and painting, what are a few of your other hobbies and interests?
I enjoy boating, photography, yoga and cooking immensely.

- Where do you see yourself a year from now and hope to accomplish by then?
I see myself trying different avenues of art. I would love to do art on a larger scale, like on the side of a building.

- What would you say is the best piece of advice you've received, learned, or live by?
Find what makes you happy, and do it everyday.

- What advice or suggestion would you give for anyone looking to become an artist themselves?
We are fortunate to be surrounded by countless talented living artists. Connect with them, learn from them and share your own work. Take advantage of all the platforms available at your fingertips that have come into existence in our generation. Experience art in the flesh as often as possible. The art community is fruitful and supportive and I couldn't imagine the world without it.

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Thank you so much, Julie, for sharing your creative sketchbook with us! And for all you wonderful readers looking to connect, you can find more of Julie and her works here:
Website: www.julielehite.com

Instagram: @julesofthesea