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

2017

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

2015

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

Reshaping the Form of Painting, Adelaide Convention Centre

2014
Portrait of a Living Skull (SALA), Tenth & Gibson, Adelaide

2013
Fisher Jeffries Barristers & Solicitors

GROUP EXHIBITIONS

2018

She Talks to Rainbows, Adelaide Airport, Curated by Carollyn Kavanagh

2015

Loreto Spring Art Show

Selected Works, Bistro Dom

Wes Anderson: A Group Show

2014
RAW Artists Official Showcase

2013
Official Selection, Portrait Prize 2013, South Australian Royal Society of Art

2012
Youthscape, South Australian Royal Society of Art

STREET ART

2018

Private Mural Commission, 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, Wickham St, Fortitude Valley, Spraypaint on Wall, 3.5m x 3.5m 

'While We Live, Let us Live', Temporary art installation and oollaboration with artists Shani Finch and Tori-Jay Mordey as part of Brisbane Street Art Festival 2018 and Festival 2018, Southbank, Brisbane

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

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