I had artist Julia Arriola on the podcast today. She is a new artist for us and our gallery-artist relationship has developed into one of those special situations where you get a new artist and their work really resonates with you as a collector and as an art dealer but is also immediately recognized by clients and collectors alike. Julia is of Mexican-Mescalero Apache descent who does these wonderful ledger drawings that have steampunk motifs incorporated into traditional Native American stories and imagery, and the story behind her mixing of these clashing ideologies is almost as interesting as the art itself. Ever since we’ve started receiving these wonderful drawings we just can’t keep them on the walls. They sell out almost immediately, usually within a day. Aside from her ledger drawings, Julia is also a very interesting person with an incredible story of how became the artist she is today. Even though she was always interested in art, Julia had to take a circuitous route to get recognized. From being a navy aircraft signaler to working in factories, to finally getting back to her love of art and getting a BFA and Masters in art - hers is a story of perseverance. If you are a struggling artist and go “Gee, I don’t think I can do this...” Listen to Julia’s story. It might give you some perspective on the uncertain, long road to becoming an artist and the payoff when you finally make it.