Bio

Julia Armstrong Peltz

I grew up in a family of artists, musicians and wordsmiths. Sunday dinners with my parents and four siblings lasted for hours with lively conversation and above all, love and humor.

Surrounded by all that abounding talent, I struggled for a while to find my creative path. I went to college and studied textiles and fashion illustration while also working on my artistic skills. I worked for many years in retail window design and visual merchandising. This was great fun, but I came to a crossroads where I needed something new. I traveled back to the Midwest and took painting lessons from my talented mother, Verna Carey Armstrong. Tuna salad sandwiches and amusing observations were provided by my father. This was a treasured time in my life and I am so grateful for the gift of life-long purpose that my mother gave to me. I have also had the opportunity to take many classes and workshops both online and in person from some amazing artists! Once I found oil painting, I never looked back!

Back when our son started grade school, I began teaching oil painting classes. My mother truly opened up my world with her method and I wanted to pass it on. My classes have grown in size and number and I have seen amazing results with beginners and with seasoned painters! It is very rewarding work and I have learned so much from my students. I also occasionally hold workshops for teens and tweens. It is fun to watch younger people fly!

Along with oil painting, I have found a new love in making mosaics using re-purposed items. This started right when I had vowed to pare down in my life! Now I am thrilled when people bring me baggies of "treasures"...jewelery, toys, nails, screws... whatever is light-weight and glue-able.

I reside in Portland, OR with my husband who is my best supporter and my careful critic. He won me over with music, humor and love so I just might keep him. He is also a wonderful photographer - therefore I appreciate his discerning eye and almost never get angry when he gives me advice on my work!

I peddle my wares in many ways...art shows, galleries, on-line, coffee shops and studios. I have won a few awards that have encouraged me to keep on keeping on. I am grateful to those amazing people who support art and artists. Please contact me if you wish to own one of my works of art. I believe the arts give this world hope and joy and that the hand of the artist is a very meaningful thing. Art touches the soul, enhances life and can bring us to a common place of spirit.

You can view my Instagram account @juliaarmstrongpeltz

Thank you for visiting my site! ~ Julia