Grass Valley-Nevada City Cultural District's newsletter,
featuring the events, stories, and people of our community

Celebrating 10 Years of Uplifting the Arts & Artists of Nevada County!

On the heels of Culture Forward implementation and a fresh new look for Nevada County Arts & Culture, we hope you will join us in celebration as we reflect on all that we’ve accomplished together and embark on the next decade in service to the arts, culture, and creativity of our rural communities.

Monday, June 15, 5-8pm
Miners Foundry
325 Spring Street, Nevada City

GVNC: What is your medium?

Romano: I am a versatile visual artist specializing in photography and videography.

GVNC: At what point in your life did you realize your calling?

Romano: I always felt drawn to the arts, and my passion for visual expression became clear when I traveled to China at 19 and discovered a talent for capturing moments with my first camera. My interest in visual arts and story telling, led me to join a cinema school in 2007 and specialize in documentary filmmaking. I worked in the cinema industry for 15 years, before expanding my scope to encompass more creative visual approaches. One of the highlight of my career is how my passion for music, and my visual gifts, led me to direct (film, and edit) many music videos.

GVNC: Tell us about your creative process.        

Romano: For me, the creative process revolves around light and framing. I see the world through a cinematic lens, constantly observing the contrast, diffusion, shadows, and brightness in my surroundings. When collaborating with clients, I guide them in exploring their vision and identifying the core message. My camera becomes a tool to evoke deeper emotions and inspire a sense of authenticity and purpose. I often hear my clients and audience share how my Art “is a felt experience”.

GVNC: What inspires you?

Romano: Nature is one of my greatest sources of inspiration, particularly the interconnectedness between humans and our environment. 

I am also extremely inspired by unveiling the authentic radiance of human beings. The art of being seen, helping people to shade layers of judgements, and see their true beauty. 

Story telling is also an important part of my inspiration. I always question a deeper meaning, a red thread when I create. Digging to find the poetic perspectives of all things.

GVNC: What are you most proud of?

Romano: I am proud of my ongoing dedication to my craft by pushing the boundaries of videography to capture and share the power of beauty, sacredness, and authenticity. These qualities encourage me to walk with courage and grace, maintaining faith and nurturing creativity. I was also honored to win the "Best Photography" award at the 2024 Wild and Scenic Film Festival Art Exhibition, and to be a grant recipient of the mini grant GV Cultural District. And to be a mother!

I am also extremely moved by the ways Art gathers, and how my work is an inspiration for others, to expand aliveness and focus on beauty. 

GVNC: What do you love best about our creative community?

Romano: I appreciate the caliber of artists, the vibrant dynamism and commitment our community has to prioritizing art in our county. The impact of our creative community is palpable, as it enhances our quality of life and strengthens connections between individuals.

GVNC: Name two Nevada county artists you admire and why.

Romano: I admire many local artists, but if I had to choose a few I would say : 

Ayla Nereo, a dear friend, and client, radiates devotion to the Earth, and its elements. She fosters a sense of community that encourages us to embrace the purity in our hearts. We co directed “Vessel” music video (watch HERE)

Jori Phillips, another cherished friend, transports us to a whimsical universe crafted from recycled materials. She masterfully infuses humor and originality into her work, offering a refreshing perspective in a modern, consumer-driven world. (Jori’s instagram)

Mana Mei, another dear sister, an international feminine embodiment facilitator, sacred embodied space creator, and muse of all things dance and movement. She also helped others reconnect to their power and true essence with the art form of dance. I directed a visual ritual for her when she was 8 months pregnant (watch HERE)

The exhibition will stay up for the Art Walk July 3d at the Miners Foundry.

The River we heal with, is an art project that weaves together the power of personal storytelling and the healing energy of the natural world. The project centers on collecting intimate, transformative stories from individuals who have experienced the healing properties of the Uba Seo’s water—whether physical, emotional, or spiritual. These stories will be paired with carefully crafted photographic portraits that capture not just the face, but the parts of the body most closely tied to the narrative. Each portrait will be layered with macro shots of the River's water, symbolizing the flow of healing, interconnectedness, and the deep connection between us and the natural world around us. 

Learn more about Julie Romano on her website www.julleye.com

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Grass Valley-Nevada City Cultural District
PO Box 1833
Nevada City, CA 95959-1833