Arriola, Julia

Julia Benites Arriola is a native Tucsonan of Mescalero/Mayo descent. She is an artist and retired curator from the Arizona Historical Society. She received her BFA, MFA in Sculpture and Metals, as well as a Masters in Landscape Architecture at the University of Arizona. In addition to her passion for art, other areas of specialization include 1800s Tucson, costume, multiculturalism, and historic landscapes.

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Julia Arriola: Pow Wows & Fairs | Artist Insights

Julia Arriola: Pow Wows & Fairs | Artist Insights

Julia Arriola - 19th Century Steampunk Ledger Drawings

Julia Arriola - 19th Century Steampunk Ledger Drawings

Julia Arriola: Native American Ledger Artist - Epi. 122, Host Dr. Mark Sublette

Julia Arriola: Native American Ledger Artist - Epi. 122, Host Dr. Mark Sublette

Julia is of Mexican-Mescalero Apache descent who does these wonderful ledger drawings that have steampunk motifs incorporated into traditional Native American stories and imagery, and the story behind her mixing of these clashing ideologies is almost as interesting as the art itself. From being a navy aircraft signaler to working in factories, to finally getting back to her love of art and getting a BFA and Masters in art - hers is a story of perseverance.