Julie Fox exhibit in MCC Ray Frederick Gallery begins Oct. 9
Fox’s love of art started young and was encouraged by both her parents. While living in New York, when she was three years old, they would take her to the major art galleries throughout the city. They would also take her to child craft shows where she was able to create her own art. She continued working on her art through high school where she did wood carving and carried this into college, incorporating sculpture and oil painting as her emphasis. She has always enjoyed a variety of media and exploring them. She attended Fort Hays State University and then transferred to Marshalltown Community College. After earning her AA degree at MCC, she transferred to the University of Northern Iowa where she earned her Bachelor of Arts degree.
During her time at MCC, she took several of Tim Castle’s classes. “Tim was amazing and very knowledgeable. I learned so much from him,” commented Fox. “He encouraged me to paint more and helped me get to where I am today.”
When asked what influences beyond her classes she uses in her artwork Fox said, “I find influence in the old masters like Caravaggio and Van Gogh. I have more of an old traditional style.” One of the pieces she mentioned specifically was Van Gogh’s Starry Night. “I love the way he is explicit in even the smallest detail.”
Fox’s exhibit will have pieces that feature nature, animals, modes of transportation as well as a segment that centers on same-sex partners and sexuality. She is hoping her exhibit will bring awareness to same-sex and non-traditional couples. “I want the awareness out there, to realize that we are just like everyone else and deserve to have the benefits that everyone else has. There is so much hate in the world. Love is where it is at. Love is what matters.”
Fox continues to build her knowledge of the different types of creativity. “I am planning on taking a welding course this Spring at MCC to use in sculpting. It’s a great way to throw things together. I love expanding my repertoire of things I can do.”
“I keep going back to school because I keep learning new things. I love the idea of looking at other artists’ work. It gives me ideas for my own. Being in class inspires me.”
This will be the first exhibit for Fox at MCC since she was a student. When asked about her upcoming exhibit she said, “I have a lot of friends at MCC, and the new gallery is amazing. I am excited and grateful for the chance to exhibit here and generate more interest in my art.” Along with being a MCC alumni, Fox is married to MCC TRIO SS Coordinator, Mandy Fox.
All but a few of the pieces on display will be for sale. The Ray Frederick Gallery is open weekdays from 9 am to 5 pm. For more information contact MCC Art Professor Tim Castle at 641-844-5776 or Tim.Castle@iavalley.edu.