From making amazing abstract paintings to teaching others to reach their creative goals, Julianna Poldi reflects on her recent publication “Abstract Painter’s Guide” with Creative Director David Brady.

DB: You have been making art for most of your life, how did you come to be an abstract painter’s coach?

JP: Soon after I began teaching this method regularly in Santa Fe, New Mexico. My students wanted to develop a voice for their work and go deeper into their process with my support. It was a natural transition from teaching painting workshops to private coaching.

DB: Your recent book “Abstract Painter’s Guide” is your first book, what led you to create one? 

JP: I realized that not everyone could attend an in-person class or afford my online class, so I thought, “Why not offer the method in a book and reach more people?”

DB: How did start your book, what was the process? 

JP: Not really knowing how to design a book, my idea was to keep it simple similar to a recipe book. I began with photographing my method step-by-step; I, then, added directions and tips taught in workshops. My challenge was in keeping it engaging and personal while reaching a universal audience.

DB: What are your goals for the book?

JP: I want my book to reach a wide audience from novice to professional; anyone interested in painting should NOT be afraid to try. The book offers a new and foolproof approach to abstract painting with easy access to materials.  It will bring out the creativity in those who think they aren’t able to draw stick figures. I hope my method elevates and encourages creatives to reach a new standard for abstract painting. Eventually, my goal is for the book to evolve into a teaching program.

DB: Your book is part of a kit. Can you tell us what that includes?

JP:The kit includes everything you need to begin - paper, paints, acrylic media, brushes, and palette knives. 

DB: As an art coach, what do you enjoy most?

JP: I enjoy watching my students develop their own creative voices. The recognition they receive as they advance is priceless.

DB: You have a studio, a gallery and also conduct workshops. How do you manage all of it?

JP: I created a schedule and lifestyle that allows me to do what I love. Poldi Gallery and Studio in Palm Springs allows for in-person workshops during the winter and spring months; the gallery is a shared space with other artists, enabling it to be open without my full-time attendance. Nowadays, my coaching is mostly online and makes working from my home studio convenient. Golden Pine Gallery is my weekend respite. I am surrounded by nature and magical light that flows into the gallery. It’s my fun time where I enjoy displaying the works of local artists and engaging with clients. Luna, my wolf-dog, keeps me balanced and apart from late hours of over-working.

DB: Any specific goals for 2022?

JP: My intention is to build a team that supports the same vision and grow together. The vision is to inspire more people to create art and make the world a more beautiful place to live. 

DB: How do we get one of your Abstract Painter’s Kits?

JP: You can purchase my Abstract Painter’s Kit on my website .abstractartcoach.com/workshops or contact me directly at poldipaints@gmail.com.  They will be available at www.novacolorpaint.com.