Julie Gratien
Gratien Art & Designs
Floral Print Designer
"Julie doesn't live in a black and white world, nor does she paint one!"
Judith Haynes Levins, Watercolor Artist
As seen in
Uppercase Magazine
Issue #61
My Passion for Color
Color fuels my creative process. I discovered its depth and potential at Syracuse University, where I began exploring how color shapes emotion, movement, and design. Today, I bring that passion into the painterly floral prints I create for fashion—using layered hues and expressive brushwork to capture feelings of joy, calm, and optimism. My designs reflect the vibrant, color-rich world I love to share through my art.
I'm a Floral Fanatic!
As a lifelong learner and observer of the natural world, I’m continually inspired by the discoveries I find in nature’s details. I’m especially drawn to its quiet treasures—the colors, forms, and textures that often go unnoticed. Flower gardening has become an essential part of my creative process, allowing me to literally grow the subjects I paint. Watching each plant come to life brings a sense of anticipation and joy, and those moments in the garden directly inform the painterly floral prints I create for fashion.
My Love for Pattern Design
My surface pattern designs are crafted through a blend of hand-painted artwork and digital techniques. I develop each pattern using Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator, ensuring the designs translate seamlessly across fashion, home décor, and the gift market. This combination of traditional artistry and modern tools allows me to create versatile, production-ready prints for a wide range of applications.
Sharing through Teaching
With more than 20 years of experience as an art educator, I’ve had the privilege of learning alongside my students and sharing the joy of creative expression. That spirit of positivity and hope continues to guide my work today. Through my art and surface pattern designs, I aim to convey an uplifting perspective—one that celebrates beauty, optimism, and the power of creativity.
Thank you for taking the time to be part of my world!
If you would like to learn more, feel free to contact me.