“Indian Wells” by Julie Dunn

2014 Indian Wells Arts Festival Commemorative Print Original 25.5”h x 19.5”w Tempera Batik painting on paper This is a 6-color hexichrome print with outstanding reproduction. Print size 18” x 24” fits standard frame size. It is her unique style and award winning reputation that made Atascadero, CA artist Julie Dunn, a stand-out when she was selected to create the 2014 Indian Wells Arts Festival poster image, which she titled “Indian Wells”. “The ‘Indian Wells’ painting is a composite of places,” said Dunn. “The view looking at the mountain range is visible from the Indian Wells Tennis Garden, as well as the rocks, desert vegetation, and beautiful flowering cactus on Miles Ave. I wanted the image to reflect the beauty of the natural desert alongside the man-made enhancements, that is, settled areas with colorful landscaping.” Dunn’s technique is characterized by a vivid use of color, two-dimensional textural surface and compelling imagery. The tempera batik technique begins with a pencil line drawing that is then drawn over with a permanent marker pen. Next, the artist paints inside the marked lines with layers of tempera paint. Once dry, the piece is entirely inked with waterproof India ink, allowed to dry again, and is then carefully rinsed with water. After dry-mounting, the painting is further detailed with tempera paint, then spayed with workable fixative and clear acrylic to protect the finished surface. “Julie’s compelling desert landscape artwork and complex technique were a beautiful fit for this year’s poster art,” said Dianne Funk, Indian Wells Arts Festival producer. “Many of our festival attendees have enjoyed and purchased her work over the years. We are delighted that she chose to create a special piece just for our festival.”