Originally born Julian Haigh in Newport South Wales, Julian changed his surname when he married in 2003. Between 1987 and 1991 Julian studied at Duncan of Jordanstone Art College in Dundee where he graduated with a Bachelor of Art in Ceramic Design with honours. In 1993 with the help of the Prince's Scottish Youth Business Trust, Shepley-Shepley trust and Clydesdale Bank he established his own business working as ceramic sculptor, his work based heavily on his love of wild animals, fantasy, science fiction and mythology.