The serenity of St James , Barbados is geographically where Julianne Gill has found the distinct privilege of drawing inspiration from over the last decade. With an interesting story and cultural background, it’s no surprise that Julianne Gill is revered as one of the most brilliant visual artists and interior designers in Barbados known for her contemporary, nature-inspired aesthetic.
Raised in Australia by Barbadian parents, she studied fine arts at Curtin University and interior design at TAFE before returning to Barbados, where she launched a successful design career with top firms like Designers Choice and Archers Hall.
“ Geographically distant yet culturally connected, Barbados and Australia may seem worlds apart—but they share subtle commonalities that deeply inform my artistic practice. A mutual love for the outdoors and vibrant beach culture shapes daily life in both places. Each is also defined by an abundance of natural light—an element that transforms how colour is seen, felt, and expressed. This connection to light, climate, and open space is central to my work, where bold palettes and fluid forms echo the energy and atmosphere of these coastal environments”
In 2010, Julianne founded Studio J to merge her passions for personalized interiors and expressive painting. Her visual art—often abstract and intuitive—draws on the vivid landscapes of island life. Long accustomed to using acrylics, she now employs additional media such as inks, encaustics, and resin to explore colour and geometries. Julianne’s process often involves many layers of pushing the paint on and pulling it back to reveal complex layers and patterns.
Julianne lives and works in Apes Hill, St. James, Barbados, balancing her creative practice with family life as a mother of two.
Gill is elated to join Shane Eastmond and Stefan Amali for Worlds Collide Barbados on May 18, 2025 at Oro Restaurant at 3pm on grounds of the beautiful O2 Beach Club & Spa. The theme of the show is ‘Azul Tropical’ which translates in English means tropical blue , a fitting concept that aligns with Gills signature, naturalistic allure that has dominated her work for years.
“I’m thrilled to be part of the Worlds Collide Barbados at the stunning O2, showing alongside artists I truly admire—Shane Eastmond, Brandon Best, Sophie Skinner, Stefan Amali, and Kedar Davis. It’s an honor to be included in such an inspiring lineup of talent.
I can’t wait to see what the others have created and to experience all the vibrant contemporary art coming together in one powerful space. Come check it out!”
Tickets available at www.ticketgateway.com
Thanks to sponsors: O2 Beach Club Hotel. Nation News. Doorly’s Rum.
