Julie Baldwin studied fine art at Grand Valley State University in Allendale, Michigan from 2002 to 2007, and graduated with a BFA in illustration. During that time, she also took on coursework that met her interest in graphic design and art history. After graduation, she became a full-time graphic designer and illustrator.
In August of 2009, Julie moved to Scotland to attend the University of Edinburgh for her master's in art history. There she focused her research on illustration and graphic design in England during World War II. Her master's thesis examined how ephemeral images (temporary images, usually discarded after a short period of time) affected concepts of identity for those living in England at that time. It suggests that these images enabled new or changing values to be ingrained within the public mindset in ways that other forms of art or communication could not.
Upon returning to Grand Rapids in 2010, she resumed work as a designer and illustrator, and has also focused her efforts on producing individual works of art.