Local Charleston artist Julie King illustrated our new Charleston City Guides, and her illustrations have us dreaming of breezy bike rides exploring Downtown and early evenings spent enjoying a glass of wine on the Piazza.
After receiving her Masters in Fine Arts, Julie launched Julie King Studio in 2017. She collaborates with clients from across the world on wedding illustration, stationary and other art and design projects. For more inspiration, make sure to check out Julie’s Instagram @juliekingstudio, we promise you won’t be disappointed. Keep reading to learn more about Julie’s current projects, how she’s navigating the new Covid-19 normal and more.
Get to Know Julie
How are you spending the quarantine?
Working from home, eating lots of snacks and entertaining my 2.5 year old son. I am so happy we’ve had beautiful spring weather because we have spent a lot of time playing outside and going on bike rides.
When quarantine is over, what’s the first restaurant you are going to go to?
That’s a tough one, I think first I will check out 167 Raw at their new location on King Street. I have yet to dine at their new spot and it looks gorgeous.
You illustrated the Zero George itineraries. If there was a “Julie King Itinerary” what would be on it?
Breakfast at Park Café or Millers All Day, then a bike ride downtown to the Battery and stroll through White Point Gardens, and hit up the farmers market at Marion Square. Lunch at Leon’s or if it’s a beach day at Sullivan’s Island, lunch from CO-OP (don’t forget the frosé to go). Pre-dinner cocktails on the Veranda at Zero George followed by dinner at Chubby Fish, the Ordinary or Xiao Bao Biscuit.
What’s your favorite thing about living in Charleston?
It’s just so beautiful here, and it never gets old. I always love the way the marshes look in the summer, the oak trees with spanish moss, the beautiful homes and architecture downtown…there is so much beauty to constantly take in. I also love that even though we are such a popular destination spot and have been growing so much, Charleston still has a small town feel to it.
What’s your favorite “insider spot” that you take your out-of-town visitors to?
Ice cream at the pharmacy in Old Village and a walk on the Pitt Street Bridge! It is a spectacular little hidden gem.
What are your recommendations for the perfect weekend in Charleston?
Spend time getting lost downtown, go to the beach, eat lots of food, and visit in the springtime if you can!
What are your top “don’t miss” spots for art?
The Halsey Institute, The Gibbes Museum, The George Gallery
What projects are you currently working on?
Most of my projects come from designing custom wedding stationery, which always keeps me pretty busy. I have also recently completed several pet and home illustrations. I am currently working on some personal projects that hopefully will come to surface later this year.
