Jump into the creative headspace of Melbourne artist Julia Stephens (@summer_svenson). We asked her loads of questions about what inspires her, her art journey, and tips for getting creative, so read on to find out more!

Growing up, did you come from a creative family?

I did! I grew up in a small, very musical family. Failing to inherit musical talent myself, I turned to drawing, which was something I would do for hours at a time. I really wanted to illustrate books when I grew up.

Where do get creative inspiration for your incredible pot paintings?

I love colour, florals, textiles, animals and anything vintage and kitschy! The fair-isle patterns I do were originally inspired by patterned jumpers.  I am also super nostalgic (as us 80s babies tend to be) and love to create tributes for some of my favourite cultural references of childhood.

What’s something you were nervous about starting, that turned out amazing?

Recently a bespoke bathroom basin company called Bramstone Co in Tasmania contacted me about a one-off painted basin. I was nervous to start, and it took me a few days to paint, but I love how over the top it is.  I painted in acrylics, then Bramstone Co sealed the basin, so it's fully functional. 

What’s an art medium that you love and one that is more of a challenge?

I tend to paint in acrylic because I love how easy and fast-drying they can be. They suit pot painting perfectly, provided you've properly primed and sealed things.

I used to paint almost exclusively with oils through my 20s and would love to start back up again but am intimidated by scaling up my artwork and going back on to canvas.

It's a 2025 goal to restart oils for sure!

If you had no time frame, what would you love to create?

I would be hand building elaborate pottery and sculpture to paint, at a large scale.  This is my creative dream, that unfortunately needs a lot more time than I have to give it.

What’s your fave time of day?

Golden hour, when the sun starts to set and the light in my painting room glows. Everything looks more beautiful at golden hour.

How do you steer a creative project that isn’t working? Any advice for fellow creators out there?

It's certainly a challenge when a creative block hits… I am quite a messy person, so I find cleaning up my space often helps clear my mind and helps me focus.  Funnily enough, new brushes and paint can help too, as I get excited about trying them out which can get things moving.

Failing that, step away and do something completely unrelated, then come back fresh tomorrow.

What are your tips on how to improve at art?

When you have an idea, or you feel like making something, get onto it then and there.  That momentum makes such a difference to your artwork.

What does a Sunday afternoon look like for you?

I love to go on country drives with my husband and kids, especially when it involves Autumn colours and a cosy pub lunch. 

Wow, we’re ready to dive headfirst into colour and get creating! Julia has taught us that when you feel a spark, grab hold and make something right away. Inspiration is all around us, so find what makes you tick and then get out the paints.  

See more about @summer_svenson by checking out our gallery, where her art journey is featured. Stock up acrylic paints, brushes, and varnish if you feel inspired to paint a pot! #montmarteart or tag us @montmarteart on Instagram or Facebook to show us what you come up with.

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