Meet Julia Klimova | Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Julia Klimova and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Julia, is there something you can share with us that those outside of the industry might not be aware of?
One thing about the art world that outsiders are probably unaware of is just how much of it is about persistence and professionalism, not just inspiration. People often imagine artists waiting for a spark of genius in a dreamy studio—but in reality, being an artist is a full-time commitment that involves constant problem-solving, time management, marketing, and relationship building. Creating the artwork is only part of it; the rest is following up with art galleries, packing and shipping work, meeting deadlines, and maintaining a presence in a competitive, fast-changing market. It’s not just about making art—it’s about building a career brick by brick, one connection and one canvas at a time.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My art is rooted in emotion, memory, and atmosphere. I strive to create pieces that feel timeless—where light, movement, and stillness coexist. Whether I’m working on a portrait or a landscape, I want the viewer to feel something before they try to define it.

What sets my work apart is a combination of classical influence and a distinctly modern sensitivity. I often hear that my paintings have an emotional pull—something subtle but powerful—and that’s the best compliment I can receive.

I am most proud of staying true to my voice as an artist. In a world that often pushes trends and quick validation, I’ve focused on developing a body of work that reflects depth and craftsmanship. I am also excited about exploring photography recently—it’s a new medium that complements my paintings and lets me play with mood and light in a different way.

Getting here wasn’t easy. Like many artists, I’ve had to navigate self-doubt, and the constant challenge of balancing creativity with the practical side of building a career, balancing career and family. I moved from Toronto to Atlanta 3 years ago, and that shift brought both inspiration and obstacles. Starting over in a new city meant rebuilding my professional network, but it also pushed me to grow and take risks.

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that consistency beats perfection. You have to keep showing up for your work, even on the hard days. Success doesn’t come overnight—it comes through years of work, connection, and resilience.

If there is one thing I want people to know about my art and my story, it’s that everything I create comes from a place of sincerity. My brand is not about trends—it is about creating meaningful, lasting work that speaks to the human experience.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend came to visit Atlanta for a week, I would plan a mix of art, nature, good food, and that laid-back Southern charm that makes this city so special, starting right here in my neighborhood, Buckhead.
We’d start the day with breakfast at The Chastain, a beautiful spot near the park that opens early and offers refined dishes in a serene garden setting. It’s the perfect place to ease into the day with amazing food and great conversation.

After breakfast, we’d head to Buckhead Village District for a leisurely stroll—window shopping at boutiques , maybe grabbing a coffee at Saint Germain Bakery. First stop: the High Museum of Art, of course—always inspiring. Then I would go to some of local galleries like Johnson Lowe Gallery, Pryor Fine Art.
Then we’d stroll the Atlanta BeltLine Eastside Trail, stopping to admire the public art and murals along the way. In the afternoon, a visit to Piedmont Park for a walk or picnic, followed by sunset cocktails on the rooftop at 9 Mile Station at Ponce City Market. It is also nice to visit Blue Heron Nature Preserve—a peaceful, hidden gem.

Atlanta is full of contrast—modern yet soulful, polished yet creative. Buckhead offers that beautiful balance: stylish and sophisticated, but with warmth and character. It’s a place where I feel both grounded and inspired—and I love sharing that with people I care about.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
There are so many people and moments that helped shape my journey, but I’d like to give a special shoutout to my family—especially my husband, Ivan—whose steady support and belief in me has made all the difference.

I also want to recognize Lagerquist Gallery, my first gallery in Atlanta, for giving me a sense of belonging in the art world here. Being represented by them early on gave me the encouragement and confidence to grow as a professional artist.

And lastly, I’m incredibly grateful to all my art galleries, collectors and supporters—those who believed in my work, often before I fully believed in it myself. Their trust and enthusiasm continue to fuel my creative path.

Website: https://juliaklimova.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliaklimovaart/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/artofjuliaklimova