Julia Townsend is a multi-disciplinary artist and muralist known for large-scale, geometric abstractions that transform architectural surfaces into vibrant, site-specific landmarks. Her bold use of shape, colour, and rhythm breathes life into blank facades, energising public spaces and fostering a sense of connection. Through layered compositions and dynamic visual balance, she amplifies the character of place, creating immersive works that resonate with those who encounter them.

A woman wearing green dress and sunglasses standing in front of a colorful geometric mural painted on a brick wall.

Rooted in the clarity and optimism of abstraction, Townsend’s murals harness the precision of geometry while inviting open interpretation. Each piece reflects a dialogue between the unique identity of its site and her evolving visual language.

She collaborates with developers, architects, and brands who recognise the transformative potential of art in the urban landscape. Her goal is to create lasting presence and works that become integral to the narrative of a place, woven into its memory and identity.

She’s ready for a new challenge so if you have an idea for a project or collaboration, get in touch today!

Colorful abstract mural painted on a brick wall in an urban area with modern buildings in the background and a blue sky above.

Three women standing in front of a vibrant mural on a brick wall featuring large portraits of women's faces, colorful flowers, and abstract geometric patterns.

Colorful abstract geometric mural painted on a brick wall, illuminated by two lights.

Colorful abstract mural painted on a brick building with two barred windows.

For Townsend, architecture is more than a setting, it is an active collaborator. She approaches each surface as a conversation between form and context, using the built environment as both framework and canvas. Her layered compositions and dynamic visual balance amplify the character of place, creating immersive works that resonate with those who encounter them.

EDUCATION

Associate Degree of Visual Art
Adelaide Central School of Art

Figure Painting
Studio Escalier, Argenton, France

Honours (Politics)
University of Adelaide
Thesis Topic – Understanding Political Corruption: Problems & Constraints

Bachelor of Arts
University of Adelaide

SOLO EXHIBITIONS

Selected Works, 2021, Westpac House, Adelaide

Mechanical Paradise, 2019, JPE Design Studio, Adelaide

Colour/ Form / Shape, 2017, Cult & Harper, Port Adelaide

Splendour of Abundance (SALA), 2015, North Lodge, Adelaide Botanic Garden

Reshaping the Form of Painting, 2015, Adelaide Convention Centre

Portrait of a Living Skull (SALA), 2014, Tenth & Gibson, 87 Gibson St, Bowden, SA

Diversity, 2013, Fisher Jeffries Barristers & Solicitors, Gouger St, Adelaide

STREET ART

Peroni iTl Skycity Installation, 2024, iTL Restaurant, SkyCity Adelaide, various size

Peroni x Barangaroo House Flag Installation, 2024, Barangaroo, NSW, various sizes

Redwolf + Rosch Office Mural Series, 2024, Adelaide, South Australia

Boardroom Mural, 2022, Pellicano HQ, 2m x 4m, Mount Waverley, VIC

Interior mural, Hilltop Grind Cafe, 3m x 4m, Nairne, SA

Rose Street Beach Mural, 2021, Acrylic on brick wall, 3m x 10m, Glenelg SA

The District Mural, Skycity Adelaide, 2020, Acrylic on concrete wall, 2.5m x 8m, Adelaide SA

First Drop Wines Mural, 2020, Acrylic on brick wall, 3.5 x 4m, Barossa Valley SA

Wonderwalls Mural, 2020, Acrylic and spraypaint on brick wall, 4m x 10m, Port Adelaide SA

Collaborative Street Mural as part of SANAA Festival, 2019, acrylic and spray paint on brick wall, 30m x 10m, Adelaide, SA

Mural Series, 23rd on Melbourne St, 2018, acrylic & copper panels on wall, various sizes

Mural Series at Workit Spaces Sydney, 2018, acrylic on wall, various sizes

Mural Series, 23rd on Melbourne St, 2018, acrylic & copper panels on wall, various sizes

Mural Series at Workit Spaces Sydney, 2018, acrylic on wall, various sizes

Street Mural as part of Eat Your Heart Out, 2018, Spraypaint and acrylic paint on brick wall, 10m x 4m,

Liverpool, NSW

Private Mural Commission at Old Red Brick Co, 2018, acrylic, spraypaint and recycled steel on brick wall, 4m x 30m, Old Red Brick Co, 165 William St, Beverley, South Australia

Street Mural titled ‘Order out of Colour, Freedom’ as part of Brisbane Street Art Festival, 2018, Spraypaint on Wall, 3.5m x 3.5m, Wickham St, Fortitude Valley

Private Mural Commission at Tenth and Gibson, 2017, acrylic paint on wall, 4m x 4.3m, 87 Gibson St, Bowden

SCHOLARSHIPS & AWARDS

2015

Selected Finalist, Lethbridge 10 000 Art Prize

Selected Finalist, Portrait Prize, South Australian Royal Society of Art

2014

Jouffrault Scholarship, Studio Escalier, France

2013