Julie Oriet began drawing and painting as a young child in Montana, though she never aspired to a career as an artist. Later while studying physical education at the University of Montana she continued her art studies. Although she was not encouraged by her professors to pursue art she completed her courses of study.

After graduation Oriet found a job at a sculptor's studio in Bozeman. She enjoyed the work so much that she stayed for five years and put off her career in teaching. The following five years were spent at a job painting decoys. The artist painted watercolors in her spare time and sold them at local shows. After a few watercolor workshops Oriet began experimenting and painting bigger pieces. She decided to devote herself ...