Julie Orelien-Hernandez is the founder and lead educator of Atelier by Jules, a Reggio-inspired art studio for young children in Newburgh, NY. She is an early childhood educator, and curriculum designer with extensive experience working with children ages 2–5 in play-based, inquiry-driven environments. Julie is a graduate of Teachers College, Columbia University, where her work focused on early childhood curriculum and arts-based learning.

With a background in teaching, curriculum development, and creative facilitation, Julie brings a thoughtful, research-informed approach to her work while remaining deeply attuned to children’s curiosity and natural ways of learning. Her practice is inspired by Reggio Emilia principles, emphasizing process over product, small group exploration, and the use of beautiful, intentional materials. Through Atelier by Jules, she creates calm, welcoming spaces where children are encouraged to explore light, texture, color, and form at their own pace.

Julie’ work is shaped by her belief that young children deserve meaningful artistic experiences that honor their ideas, voices, and ways of seeing the world. As both an educator and a mother of two toddler boys (1.5yo and 3.5 yo), she is passionate about building creative communities that support families and celebrate childhood as a time of wonder, experimentation, and joy.