Local artist revered by community passes away

If you ever met Jim Julin you would have quickly noticed his infectious smile, but even if you never knew the man you probably knew his work.

"When he walks in the room, he lights up the room," said executive director of the Rockford Area Arts Museum Linda Dennis.  "He's loved by everyone."

Jim Julin's art can be found in homes and around town, but maybe one of the most famous pieces, "The Big Chair" sits outside the Rockford Art Museum and was installed in 2002.

"That's how a lot of people identify how to get to the River Front Museum Park," said Dennis.  But his true passion was working with wood.

"It was his feelings," said Dennis.  "The way he expressed himself through his artwork that was really meaningful to people."

His influence can also been seen at the Anderson Japanese Gardens, which wouldn't look anything like it does today if it weren't for Julin.  "His creative spirit is throughout this place," said Anderson Japanese Gardens curator Tim Gruner.

Gruner worked with Julin since 1989.  He says it's Julin's engineering skills that helped the scenic views come together.

"Incredibly strong, some people looked at it and thought maybe it's over built," said Gruner.  "But it's been 25 years on some of this stuff and more, and it hasn't moved."

Julin helped design and build a lot of what you don't see, like the walls that hold up rocks, but added some things you do see like benches and lanterns.

"Working with Jim was an incredible opportunity to get an education, because he knew so much about so many things," said Gruner.

Julin was well loved throughout the arts community.  "Every single person that knows Jim has a story to tell," said Dennis.  Which is why his art legacy and humble spirit will last for years to come

"He did so much for our community," said Dennis.  "Not just in the way of arts but in giving to people and doing for others."

"His skill and memory will live on for a long, long time," said Gruner.

Octane in downtown Rockford is hosting an event to celebrate Julin's life.  It's on Saturday, July 28th from 8pm to close.  You're encouraged to bring pictures and share memories. 

Some proceeds from the event will go to help Julin's family with medical costs.

Jim Julin died Sunday, July 22^nd in the hospital.  He was 56 years old.