Moroccan Street

JULIE JENKINS I originally worked and trained as a Graphic Designer in a London Advertising Company in the late 1960's In 1970 I moved to Greece where I lived for three years, during this time I painted in oils and pastels, both portraits and landscapes, depicting village life. The brilliant light found in Mediterranean countries inspired me with its clarity of colour and contrast of shadows. Mid-1970's I lived in Maryland, Virginia and New England U.S.A. I exhibited in Annapolis, Chesapeake Bay and Richmond. I travelled extensively in America during my five years of residence. 1981 I relocated to the Middle East where I resided for three years. Inspired by the local culture and traditions I sketched and formulated my technique with gouache and ink. I exhibited my work and received commissions in the U.A.E. From the mid-eighties to the year 2000 I was based in Guildford, Surrey, during this time I travelled throughout Turkey, Egypt, Morocco and Tunisia recording life and times of the Ottoman Emprie, Ancient Egypt and Islam. Widespread travel in India, Kashmir, Nepal and South-East Asia also influenced my work. Themes from folklore and textiles played a role in my silk paintings. 14 solo exhibitions both in the U.K. and abroad were the direct result of these experiences. These past thirty years of travel have been a great source of my inspiration. My paintings are based on movement and design. I wish to represent what I have observed in pure colour and simplicity of form, showing scenes that have fascinated and captivated me. I have been influenced by the people, energy and light in the countries that I have both lived and visited. My recent exhibitions:- First View Gallery Stourhead Summer Exhibition June 2008 Bruton Art Society Annual Exhibition 2008 Sherborne Art Club 2008 Society of Graphic Fine Art - 85th & 86th Open Annual Exhibitions at the Menier Gallery, 57 Southwark Street, London SE1. September - October 2008/2009.

The last two years I have spent some considerable time on my adventures in Central Asia, North-West China and Inner Mongolia.

My exhibition 'Sandstone' is the result of great inspiration drawn from my recent travels along parts of the Silk Route.  I have been fortunate enough to visit both exotic and spiritual places in some remote places which have had a profound effect on my life.