What does it take to turn pain, loss, and controversy into creativity, freedom, and art that sparks national debate? In this episode of the Artist Recovery Podcast, Rich Wright sits down with internationally trained artist, cultural entrepreneur, and outspoken advocate for artistic freedom Julian Raven—and his story is nothing short of unforgettable.
🔥 What You’ll Hear in This Episode:
From Idyllic Spain to Deep Loss: Growing up in 1970s Marbella, Julian paints vivid memories of Mediterranean light, nature, and creative curiosity—only to have his world shattered by the sudden death of his father.
The Wounds of Rejection: His raw account of battling grief, moving 36 times in a decade, and struggling with faith and identity paints a picture of an artist searching for meaning.
The Spark of Art: Hear how unlikely mentors—teachers who saw talent in doodles—pulled him out of despair and set him on a creative path that led to London’s prestigious Chelsea School of Art.
Clashing with the System: Why did Julian walk away from art school after only seven months? His rebellion against rigid institutions, student riots, and toxic criticism shaped his fight for independence.
Bars, Battles & Breakdown: The wild years running one of Marbella’s hottest bars included brushes with police brutality, nights of chaos, and near-suicidal despair. His brutal honesty about that period is jaw-dropping.
A Mountain Epiphany: In a life-changing moment, Julian describes encountering God through nature—the acorn epiphany that transformed his atheism into faith and his chaos into calling.
Art as Activism: Julian later rose to national attention for defending controversial artwork in U.S. courts, testing his convictions on free speech and artistic freedom.

🚀 Why This Story Matters:
Julian Raven’s life isn’t just about art—it’s about survival, freedom, and the healing power of creativity. Whether you’re an artist, entrepreneur, or simply someone who’s ever felt lost, his story is proof that even in the darkest valleys, there’s light waiting to break through.

Connect with Julian:
https://ravenartstudiomarbella.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julian.raven
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JulianRavenArtist
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/JulianRaven/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@RavenArtStudioMarbella

Get Noticed and Be a Guest through Podmactch:
https://www.joinpodmatch.com/artistrecovery

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