Julie S Brandon creates detailed fiber art using digital printing techniques and stitching, each piece telling a story.
How did you get into what you do creatively?
My roots are in quilting. As I learned all the techniques, then I realized I preferred realism over abstraction. In particular, I found myself drawn to human and anthropomorphic forms. My ideas couldn’t always be translated into traditional quilt piecing. There was a level of detail I couldn’t achieve without the distraction of seams. So began my search to find ways to achieve the realism I was looking for by using fabric and fibers.
Tell us more about your exploration of processes for working with digital imagery in your work.
Most of the time, the digital imagery I use is the result of using traditional methods of mark making or photographs. In an effort to convey ideas and feelings, I use digital tools to audition color, images and words.
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When it comes to creating, are you more of a planner or an improviser?
I am an improviser. If something strikes me I run with it and see where it goes.
Many times it doesn’t go anywhere. But I view the experience as a building block. I find these building blocks useful in a project I do see to completion.
Describe your creative space.
My physical space is, by most standards, messy. It is a dry messy. I do use traditional art methods in my creative process. However, I prefer fabric, fibers and glue to paints, dyes and solvents. I like the chaos in my creative space because it shows me infinite possibilities.
Do you work actively on more than one project at a time?
I always have more than one project going at a time. Today’s unfinished project is tomorrow’s design element for project that hasn’t emerged yet.
Can you tell us about the inspiration and process of one of your works? How does a new work come about?
My best works are the result of an emotional trigger. For example, five years ago, my family befriended a woman who came to the United States on a marriage visa only to find her husband was abusive and had addiction issues. Her struggle to free herself from a bad situation included being falsely convicted of Marriage fraud, detention in an ICE facility and a constant fear of either being killed or deported. Today, her struggle continues. Thankfully the marriage fraud conviction was dismissed on appeal and hopefully she will receive her green card in the next year.
I felt strongly that her journey needed to be documented and shared with the world. My project “What It Takes”, completed in 2022, was my response to the emotional ups and downs I felt as an observer of her immigration to America.
Which part of the design process is your favorite?
My favorite part is playing with my ideas in graphics software and thinking about the best way to transform my ideas into physical form.
Is there an overarching theme that connects all of your work?
Connecting with others is the driving force behind my journey as a visual artist
How has your creativity evolved over the years? What triggered the evolution to new media/kinds of work/ways of working?
Over the years, I have broadened my horizons to include creating 3D art using fabric and fiber. My trigger was being introduced to art doll making. The techniques I learned encouraged me to think outside the box. I learned to look at objects as shapes that could be repurposed to represent something else. I enjoy the challenge and the thrill of the hunt required to transform objects into something else.
Does your work have stories to tell?
Yes, it is the main driver behind my work.I want to share a story.
What was the biggest challenge that you encountered on your creative journey? What did you learn from it?
Finding my voice and being at peace with the idea that my art is valid and has meaning. With that confidence, I learned it was okay not to be everybody’s cup of tea.
What’s the best piece of advice you give to others?
Study and learn the techniques of your craft to the best of your ability. But don’t become a perpetual student looking for perfection. You must move away from the security of the classroom and fly.
Where can people see your work?
Website: www.reddogenterprises.com
Pieces that are traveling:
Studio Art Quilters Associates exhibit Bearing Witness, “A Cruel Twist Of Fate”
Sacred Threads exhibit 2025 Travel Exhibit, “Grief Is The Price Of Love”
Interview posted December 2024
Browse through more inspiring art quilts on Create Whimsy.