Desert Art Center Master Painter’s Class 2023
ABSTRACT PAINTING
New! Beginner’s EVENING classes at Desert Art Center in Palm Springs, Fall 2026 hours coming soon. Contact me for details. 505-603-2658
Private lessons available online & in person.
view student websites below
“Thank you for seeing something in me that I didn’t know was there - and believing that I could paint. More than I believe in myself. I am so blessed to have met you. It was meant to be. I am so appreciative.” TSG 10/ 2024 ”
“I must say my work has changed dramatically since working with Julianna.” 2023
- Elizabeth Springs
“I am so thankful to have discovered Julianna as working with her is a game changer - what I learned with her in one afternoon I’m still practicing years later. Her insight and experience make her a true coach in teaching the art of creativity and how to unlock the artist’s mind. I have received many compliments on the work I have completed under Julianna’s teaching and I highly encourage anyone who is curious about developing the art of abstract painting to spend an afternoon in one of her online courses.” Meghan Nolan 4.20.20
“Julianna Poldi is the perfect teacher for me in perfect timing. I have been painting for 15 years and actively selling for 7. Last year, I made a leap in my work and now under Julianna’s tutelage I am changing on a foundational level. Her insight and intuitive guidance are right on. I thought I was past art instruction, and boy was I wrong! Julianna has inspired me to completely reframe my painting: to explore small, meditative work, taking the time to immerse myself in the message and manner of painting, to bring in more light with layers of translucence, to build from a foundation that supports that lightness and free flow of energy. Julianna challenges me in a nurturing way that gives me confidence in my ability. She is a born teacher.” Melinda Curley. 7.21.21
ACCOLADES https://sipmagazine.com/artist-teresa-spellman-gambles-solo-exhibition-at-tinte-cellars-georgetown/
Next Level Art Making
There comes a point in every artist's journey when technical skills alone are no longer enough. What is needed is thoughtful guidance, honest conversation, and a trusted mentor who can help you see your work—and yourself—with greater clarity.
For more than sixteen years, I have mentored artists at every stage of their creative journey. Whether your goal is to develop a stronger studio practice, prepare for gallery exhibitions, create a cohesive body of work, or simply rediscover the joy of painting, our work together is designed around your unique vision.
My role isn't to teach you to paint like me.
My role is to help you discover the artist you are becoming.
My teaching philosophy, Freedom Through Structure, provides a framework that encourages confident decision-making while honoring intuition and personal expression. Through thoughtful critique, meaningful dialogue, and consistent encouragement, you'll gain the tools to create work that is authentic, intentional, and unmistakably your own. Video below filmed January 2024.
Julianna Poldi not only helped me evolve as an artist, but adeptly coached me in preparing for a large, solo exhibit. Because covid, I had not shown my work publicly for three years. As a result, I had a substantial inventory and also wanted to showcase new paintings which reflected different directions inspired by Poldi’s teachings. In creating new work for the show, Poldi offered specific, insightful and intuitive feedback that enabled me to exceed what I thought I could accomplish. The exhibit generated sales of eight paintings, half of which were completed under Poldi’s guidance. I highly recommend Poldi as an art coach both for expanding your art ability and also in preparing for a public showing of your work.
Melinda Harr Curley, MFA, MBA 2023
Now on amazon
Discover the power of Painting with Presence and Freedom through Structure.
“Time with Julianna is time well spent….. After connecting with her in Palm Springs four years ago, my confidence and freedom to create and express myself has grown dramatically. Julianna is definitely encouraging, engaging and she knows what she is doing. She has helped me move to large format canvas with confidence and great results.” Patsy Telpner, 4.17.20
