At Nest and Bird, we celebrate the beauty of Australian art and the creativity of its makers. Each season, we’ll shine a spotlight on an artist, offering you a glimpse into their journey, process, and the inspirations behind their incredible work. It’s our way of connecting you with the talented individuals whose creations bring warmth and character to your home.
We’re thrilled to introduce our first featured artist, Julia Abbey, whose vibrant work is a heartfelt celebration of Australia’s natural beauty. Based in the picturesque Southern Highlands of New South Wales, Julia weaves native birds, flowers, and nostalgic everyday scenes into her bold, colourful paintings. As she transitions from a successful teaching career to fully embrace her passion for painting, we’re excited to share her story with you. Each of Julia’s pieces tells a tale, inviting you to experience the joy and charm that only original art can bring.
We sat down with Julia Abbey to chat about her creative journey and discover what fuels her work. From her early passion for teaching to her recent leap into life as a full-time artist, Julia shared with us the stories behind her pieces, her love for imperfection, and the everyday moments that inspire her.
A Journey Fuelled by Passion
Julia’s love for art has been a constant presence in her life, starting long before she picked up a paintbrush. “Art has always been a passion of mine,” she shares. From running creative classes in felting, mosaics, and painting to her early ambitions of attending art school, Julia’s creative spark never dimmed. But like many, life led her down a different path, and she became a primary school teacher, where she found joy in the bold, uninhibited expression of her students. It wasn’t until the pandemic hit that Julia finally returned to painting, reigniting her artistic passion. “I bought a couple of canvases, picked up a paintbrush again, and the rest is history,” she says with a smile.
Nature as Inspiration
When Julia isn’t creating art, you’ll find her surrounded by nature—her ultimate source of inspiration. “I absolutely love spending time walking and swimming in the ocean. Nature inspires me incredibly,” she says. Growing up in England has given her a deep appreciation for the flora and fauna of Australia. From antique shops to Instagram pages featuring quirky ceramics, Julia draws inspiration from everyday objects, often discovering the next spark for a painting in the most unexpected places.
Art That Adds Charm to Any Space
One of the things that makes Julia’s work so special is its ability to add personality and warmth to any space. But even with all the praise her art receives, there’s one painting that always brings a smile to her face. “I love things that aren’t perfect,” Julia explains. One of her favourites is titled Life Is Like A Bowl Of Cherries. “It’s a bit wonky, and there are a few brave followers who love that style!” Another recurring element in her work is Persian rugs, which she says never fail to make her happy.
A Personal Connection with Every Piece
Julia’s connection to her art runs deep, so much so that she occasionally keeps some of her favourite pieces for herself. “My new house has five of my own favourites, mainly birds, which I’ve displayed in my Airbnb, surrounded by the real birds!” she laughs. Her daughter’s home has also become a gallery of sorts, often “babysitting” paintings until they find a new owner. One of her most personal pieces hangs in her mother’s bedroom—a painting Julia created while her mother was unwell, a reflection of the comfort and love her art brings.
From Teaching to Full-Time Artist
Though Julia’s creativity has always been part of her identity, turning it into a full-time career wasn’t an easy decision. “I never imagined selling my work,” she admits. But as more and more of her pieces found homes, she realised that she could pursue her passion seriously. She made a bold move, selling her house and quitting her job to live by the coast—an area she’d long dreamt of calling home. “It was a huge step, but I couldn’t be happier. Now I can paint to my heart’s content every day!”
Embracing Happy Accidents
Like many artists, Julia has had her share of surprises in the studio. One of her most memorable “happy accidents” involved a varnish mishap. “I once bought the wrong varnish and accidentally spread pearl varnish over a huge painting,” she recalls. Initially thinking the painting was ruined, she was pleasantly surprised when the buyer praised the unexpected pearl effect!
Seeing Her Work in Your Home
For Julia, the joy of creating art extends beyond the canvas. “I paint happy scenes, and I hope they bring joy to the homes they end up in,” she says. And nothing gives her more of a buzz than seeing her work displayed in someone’s home. “Customers often send me photos of my work in their spaces, and I absolutely love seeing them!”
What’s Next for Julia?
As Julia continues to explore new avenues in her art, she’s excited to share what’s next on her creative journey. From painting on old weatherboards rescued from nearby homes to embarking on an artist residency in a French chateau, Julia’s passion for experimentation and discovery remains at the heart of her work. “I’m going to explore some aerial views and buildings… watch this space!” she teases.
Discover Julia Abbey’s Artwork
At Nest and Bird, we’re honoured to showcase Julia’s stunning creations, each one a vibrant reflection of Australia’s beauty and a testament to her creative spirit. Whether you’re looking to add a burst of colour to your living room or find a unique piece that tells a story, Julia’s art will bring warmth and joy to any space.