We talk extensively about supporting local businesses and #buyingsmall, but when do we ever thank customers for their patronage? This series of posts is meant to honor the unsung heroes who recognize the hard work, passion and dedication we put into our craft and shine the light back onto them. Without them, we couldn't continue to do the work that we love and for that I am so grateful.
Owner of...
Spoke Too Soon by Julie Ahmad & Peppermint by Featured Artist, Donna Schwandt!
Tell us about yourself!
My name is Jill Israel and I live west of the 360 Bridge. I teach English & Theatre Production at Small Middle School in Austin, Texas. My job as a teacher is to build empathy and social emotional mindsets as students explore and master academic work. This year, I will be focusing on building strong relationships with students, peers, and leadership while contributing to Small’s culture of love and grace.
How did you discover Julie Ahmad Contemporary Art? Why do you buy original art? Is this the first piece of original art you have ever owned? What does it mean to you to support a local artist?
I was fortunate to connect with Donna Schwandt, a featured female artist at Julie Ahmad's studio, who urged me to go to the Gallery where her art is displayed for sale. I purchased the painting Peppermint by my friend, Donna, and at the same time I was extremely impressed by Julie Ahmad's large-scale Spoke Too Soon abstract piece. I spoke with Julie about the work she does with women in the community, and I began to feel part of her vision. I was glad to make an investment in the painting and to support the work Julie does with women in Austin.
What drew you to this original piece of art? Why this piece?
I was drawn to one particular piece called Spoke Too Soon with its swirly colors of blue and gray that intensified toward the middle with accents of lavender. I am thrilled with my purchases from Julie Ahmad's Art Studio + Gallery. Julie was dedicated to making sure I was happy with her original painting by digitally rendering the piece in a photo I sent of my interior. This raised my confidence to purchase this beautiful piece of art, and the icing on the cake was when they brought it to my home and installed it beautifully!
How did you feel about the space before you added the artwork and how does it feel now?
I have lived in my home for 3 years and had not put much art on the walls. I was looking for inspiration and am so glad I met Julie! Spoke Too Soon is now the highlight of my living room, and it instantly made my house look like a cozy home. I am feeling fulfilled by my investment and happy that my blank walls are getting some love.
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