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Meet Julia Contacessi, Minted + domino’s Featured Monthly Artist!

text by  ANNA KOCHARIAN

With a focus on color, texture, and composition, contemporary and abstract artist Julia Contacessi strives to deliver an atmospheric effect in every one of her pieces. Inspired by the principle of letting “the picture lead you where it must go” Contacessi’s single-minded approach embraces a focus on the simplicity of beauty found in a moment. The Pratt Institute graduate currently resides in Norwalk, Connecticut with her husband, Mario, and son, Neo. Here, she touches on her inspirations and the one thing she can’t live without

WHERE DO YOU FEEL MOST INSPIRED? I’m most inspired and free to new ideas when my mind is adrift — dreamy and abstracted — which is usually in the shower, on a run, or driving in the car.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR PERSONAL STYLE? I’m pretty classic with a nod toward the modern and clean. I love tailored lines and mid-century modern décor, mingled with today’s desire for casual elegance and function. It’s just amazing when it all comes together and the look isn’t overthought, but all the details were considered.

WHAT MAKES A HOME BEAUTIFUL? A beautiful home is gorgeous by design, but also gives you a warm welcoming feeling too. I love an open layout with lots of sunlight, clean lines, and cozy spots with personal touches.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT BEING AN ARTIST? I get to do so many things that I love. Not only painting, but I also love photography and design. I’m thrilled that I’m allowed the freedom to continue to explore and evolve my craft, and I love finding opportunities to collaborate with other artists and designers. The best part, I’m my own boss – so if my son asks me to join him for lunch at school on a Tuesday, I can!

WHAT IS YOUR MOST PRIZED POSSESSION? My Canon DSLR with a Macro lens.

ON WHAT ITEMS DO YOU SCRIMP? I just discovered the used book section on Amazon. Genius.

ON WHAT ITEMS DO YOU SPLURGE? In no particular order: food, face cream, and running sneakers. My husband was born in Italy and works in the restaurant business. Good food and enjoying it together is a must. As for the face cream, I don’t invest much more than a few fleeting moments every morning on my appearance. A lot can be improved with a little moisturizing. And sneaks, with all the pounding you just don’t want to mess around.

WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE TRAVEL DESTINATION? Anywhere on the beach with family is fine by me.

SEE MORE OF OUR AT HOME WITH A MINTED ARTIST SERIES