Julie Shepherd

I first discovered the wonderful world of artist bears quite by accident when on a shopping trip to Brighton in 1992.  I saw a limited edition Hermann bear in a department store and was told about the specialist shop ‘Bears & Friends’ just around the corner in the famous Brighton Lanes.  I had no idea what a life-changing decision I was making when I decided it wouldn’t hurt to just take a quick look.

As they say, the rest is history.

I have always loved needlework and was inspired by the magical creations I saw, I bought a kit and made my first bear.  The experience taught me the bear-making process so the next stop was a trip to Teddies 1992 where I bought a beautiful piece of distressed mohair and decided to create my own pattern.  And of course, it is impossible to stop with just one bear.

I exhibited at my first fair later that year and have been creating ever since.  My bears and their friends are all my own work from design to completion.  Over the years my style has evolved, but the one constant has been to create bears, and now bunnies, with a kind and gentle expression. I often hear collectors exclaim ‘what lovely faces’ and that is exactly the reaction I hope for.

Over the years my bears have found homes across the world and have also appeared in many teddy related publications including Teddy Bear Times, Teddy Bear Club International, Teddy Bear Scene and Teddy Bear & Friends.

I also write regular ‘how to’ features and show reviews for Teddy Bear Times and Friends.