“LaFonda” from Squash Blossom Farm
I’D RECOGNIZE Faribault artist Julie Fakler’s art anywhere. She paints animal portraits that pop with personality and color, that leave me smiling and happy.
“Peters Farm Horse”
Her signature acrylic paintings feature domestic animals against a backdrop of bold color. No distractions of setting. Just the animal, full focus.
“Grandview Farm Cat”
I’m always drawn to the eyes. Julie has the ability to paint eyes that connect me to the cat or dog or horse or cow or goat or whatever creature she paints. I look into those eyes and I see an animal cared for, loved, important to someone somewhere.
A promo for Julie’s Faribault show.
The latest somewhere took Julie onto five area farms to wander among and photograph animals, talk with the farmers and then paint for her latest show, “Southeastern Minnesota Farm Animal Portraits Exhibition.” She received a Southeastern Minnesota Arts Council grant for the project.
Julie’s farm animal portraits, including “Squash Blossom Farm Chicken,” adorn walls in Buckham Commons.
Several days ago I photographed, with Julie’s permission, her art now displayed through February 28 at Buckham Commons, the hallway linking Faribault’s public library to the community center. Her farm animal paintings are also displayed through February 24 at the Austin (MN) Artworks Gallery. Julie’s new show deviates from her usual pet portraits. I always appreciate an artist who takes on creative challenges.
“Grandview Farm Goat”
Whenever I view Julie’s animal art, I envision her vibrant work beyond acrylic on hardboard. I see her animal portraits on the pages of a children’s picture book, on t-shirts, on pillows, on tote bags…the possibilities seem endless for this animal-loving artist.
Even Julie’s guestbook is handcrafted.
Portrait propped next to the guestbook.
Some of the comments penned in the guestbook.
TELL ME: What do you think of Julie’s art and/or other possibilities for her paintings?
© Copyright 2018 Audrey Kletscher Helbling
Artwork copyright of Julie Fakler and photographed with her permission. Julie paints animal portraits on commission and also teaches “Paint your Pet” classes. Check her website by clicking here for more info.
Minnesota Prairie Roots 
All of these farm friends appear very friendly and approachable. Well, except maybe the rooster… but then they are supposed to be a bit ferocious in their role of protecting the flock! Ha ha! I really love the idea of the bold background that showcases the animal. I admire the work of people who can draw and paint. I’m only capable of stick drawings!
Julie definitely captures the personalities. I, too, admire visual artists of such talent.
—-If I could sign the book, I’d say “I LOooooooooooVE YOUR CATS!”
Well, then, consider yourself as having signed Julie’s guestbook.
I love the simplicity of her paintings. I also noticed the eyes, they just bring you in! Also notices the distinct outline of the animal in each painting! Julie is very talented, love her work!
Thanks for pointing out the distinct outline on each animal. I noticed that, too, and it’s part of her signature style.
Thank you Audrey for all of the wonderful compliments!!!
You are most welcome, Julie. I love your portraits. You are one gifted artist and a wonderful person. Thank you also for all you do to promote the arts.
What a talent! I love all of them featured here, but especially the cows.
Aren’t they great? I have an affinity for the cattle also, having grown up on a dairy farm.
V cool!
Yup.
Her art is so alive and vibrant – love it 🙂 I went to her site to see if she had any pigs and no. Thanks for sharing!
Oh, but she did have a pig in the exhibit I photographed. I just didn’t include a photo of the pig.
So there is hope – may have to contact her.
Do. Julie would love to hear from you. Tell her I sent you.
These are so full of life and warmth; I really like her style. Thanks for introducing her and I hope Owatonna gets to see some of her work, too.
I expect Julie may already have exhibited in Owatonna at some time during the past. But I don’t know for certain.
Talented lady! Love the artwork!
Julie is definitely talented…
I do like her artwork. Thanks for highlighting it. I may try to get to the Faribault Library to see it up close.
The show only runs until Feb. 28. Also, make sure you come during library hours as I believe the hallway commons area may be locked when the library is closed.
Oh my goodness these are so cute. I love the cat
I’m not surprised by your love of the feline portrait. 🙂