Introducing Julia Ferrell

Born and raised in Natchitoches, Louisiana, Julia Ferrell is a mixed-media artist who has been practicing from a very young age. Julia is currently majoring in Fine Arts with a concentration in Ceramics at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. Outside of school, she runs her art business, “Juju’s Creative Corner,” and serves as a teaching artist at Scrappie Studio.

Julia is currently exploring clay and metal as media to express her personal lived experiences in universally relatable and embraceable themes. Whether creating a sculptural piece or practical ware, her goal is to enhance the holding space with beauty and functionality, through funky colors and motifs. Each piece emerges from a delicate balance of intention and spontaneity. The tactile nature of the clay itself becomes a form of meditation, where focus and stillness guide towards a deeper understanding of her own creative voice.

Who makes up your art circle?

I have the privilege of being part of a fantastic art circle composed of people from diverse backgrounds. My professors and peers in the fine arts department at ULL make up a large part of my art circle. Getting involved with Archives Exhibitions, plus being a teaching artist at Scrappie Studio, both have introduced me to phenomenal local artists. My family and friends are a strong support in my art circle, where I’m able to bounce ideas and become inspired.

How do you expand your art circle?

I expand my art circle by simply talking to everyone. You never know when you could learn something or be inspired by someone. Making connections and growing your network will always help you in the long run. That’s why showing up in your community is important. Whether that’s teaching art, showcasing art, supporting art shows and exhibitions, or collaborating with others, art has a beautiful way of bringing people together— if you let it.

What value do you see in having a creative community?

Having a creative community is crucial to your success as an artist. It is important for me to surround myself with other artists who support to inspire and motivate me to think outside of the box. In a society that pushes for us to be the same, having that creative community reminds me of how funky and cool, yet profound, the human experience is, and how wonderful it is to celebrate our differences through art.

How does your artistic approach contribute to your community?

I like to believe my artistic approach contributes to my community by creating connections, beautifying spaces, and facilitating internal and external reflection. I find my art to be a conversation starter, providing a momentarily shared experience, from which we can engage one another. It’s an adventure every time.

Our weekly Art Circle series profiles artists throughout the community and is sponsored in part by Lafayette Visitor Enterprise Fund, managed by Lafayette Travel