Today we’d like to introduce you to Julia Barger.
Hi Julia, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
Art has always been an important part of my life. I earned my degree in art, but for many years I worked in education, tutoring students and painting murals in the school building where I worked. Those murals became a meaningful way to connect with students and staff — and helped me realize just how powerful art can be in creating joy and bringing people together.
Over time, I began to focus more on my own painting, especially watercolor. I’ve always been drawn to nature — birds, animals, botanicals, peaceful landscapes — and those themes naturally became the heart of my work. I also started offering custom pet portraits, which have become one of my favorite parts of what I do. There’s something really special about capturing the spirit of someone’s beloved animal and turning it into a lasting keepsake.
Today, I run a small art business that includes original watercolor paintings, greeting cards, and commissions. I also create seasonal window art for businesses and homes, which brings art into everyday spaces in a fun and approachable way.
I’m new to the Kansas City area and excited to connect with the creative community here. While much of my work so far has been in other parts of Missouri, I’m looking forward to growing my presence locally and continuing to share nature-inspired art that brings a sense of beauty and calm into people’s lives.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Like many creative paths, it’s had its ups and downs. One of the biggest challenges has been building consistency — both in the flow of work and in learning how to treat my art as a business, not just a hobby. Early on, things would come in big spurts followed by slower seasons, which made it hard to feel steady. Over time, I’ve learned how to navigate those rhythms and have found more balance through planning ahead, offering a variety of services, and staying connected with my audience.
Another challenge has been learning the behind-the-scenes aspects of running a business — everything from pricing and marketing to website updates and bookkeeping. It’s been a learning curve, but also empowering to see how much I’ve grown. Each step, even the hard ones, has helped shape this journey into something I’m proud of.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m a watercolor artist who specializes in nature-inspired art, and pet portraits. My work includes original paintings, prints, greeting cards, custom commissions, and seasonal window art. I love working in different formats, but everything I create is rooted in a sense of calm, beauty, and connection to the natural world.
One of the things I’m best known for is my custom pet portraits. I work from photos and try to really capture each animal’s personality — not just what they look like, but the spirit behind their eyes. I’ve had people tell me they cried when they opened their portrait, and that’s always the highest compliment.
I also create custom artwork and window designs that bring art into everyday spaces. Whether it’s a welcoming storefront or a cozy kitchen wall, I love helping people turn blank surfaces into something joyful and personal.
What I’m most proud of is being able to build a creative business that reflects who I am — and to make work that brings meaning to others. I think what sets my work apart is its warmth and sincerity. I care deeply about the people I create for, and I pour that care into every piece. My goal is always to make something that feels personal, peaceful, and made with heart.
How do you think about luck?
I feel incredibly fortunate to have had artist friends who have been a few steps ahead of me in their own creative journeys. Their willingness to share what they’ve learned, offer encouragement, and cheer me on has made such a difference. I’ve learned so much just by watching how they approach their work and how they’ve built their businesses — it’s been like having an informal mentorship, and I don’t take that for granted.
Of course, building a business takes a lot of effort behind the scenes, but I do think good timing and good people have played a part in moving things forward. Sometimes the right opportunity or connection comes along when you least expect it, and I’ve learned to stay open to those moments and say yes when they come.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://juliabargerart.com/
- Instagram: @juliabargerart
- Facebook: @JuliaBargerArt
