Julie Bonilla

Artist and Owner

Earth & Fire Art Studio

Julie’s passion for creation and fostering that same passion in others, stems from an education in Studio & Fine Art at Michigan State University, coupled with a degree in Psychology from Southern Connecticut State University. While studying under renowned ceramicist, Brian Boldon, Julie discovered a calling for the tactility, plasticity and versatility of clay. During her travels and studies throughout Europe, Julie’s appreciation for art history and the media of acrylic and oil paint deepened and she returned home with a desire to put paint to canvas. Her work in both ceramics and paint is inspired by the colors, sounds, sights and seasons of the Connecticut River Valley, as well as, her travels throughout America and abroad. Julie lives in East Haddam, CT with her husband and their five children. They share their 1790 colonial farmhouse with a sweet and snuggly Bernese Mountain Dog named Maggie and a cranky little kitty named Zoe. With over twenty years of experience and a continued education in painting and ceramics, Julie is now excited to encourage other artists of all ages to come imagine and inspire alongside of her in a space that has been established to foster bonds through community and creativity.