Location: United States
My name is Debra Jo Johnson, 66 years old, born in Chicago, Il.
Family life consists of sharing a home with my daughter, son-in-law,
plus a whole slew of “grandpets”. Moving to Arkansas over 30 years ago was
a major culture shock for me. But, as I have lived her for most of my life, this
has become home.
My painting interest began when I was about 13 yrs old. As a young girl, I took classes at the Chicago Art Institute. Later I took classes at the Arkansas Arts Center Museum School and have attended various workshops. My passion is to paint. I find my heart goes to portraits of animals, people and birds. Recently, I have been exploring abstract painting. At first I learned to paint with oils, but I found the ease in working with acrylics and watercolor to be preferable.
Over the years, I focused mostly on a career and my family. Now I have the luxury to explore and study art. I have found another passion is to teach. As I tutor several young students, I am able to dig deeper into art while, at the same time, being able to learn along with them: Many times I learn from them! I really enjoy the gratification of watching these young artists grow in their ability to paint. Now I have time to enjoy the fellowship of learning and painting along other artists!
As a member of the Art Association of Central Arkansas and the Mid-South Watercolorists, it is my passion to promote art for the youth in our area in addition to the adult artists. Both of these organizations offer many opportunities and I hope to be part of their growth in our area.
Mackenzie Reese, artist, is 12 yrs. old. The painting is done with acrylics on 11" x 14" canvas.
Aiden Adams, 11 yrs. old, painted Pennywise in acrylics on watercolor paper.
Scarlett Hasley, 12 yrs. old, is the artist. Using an acrylic pour technique, she created this very flowy feather. This design won 3rd place at the 2019 Arkansas State Fair.
Scarlett Hasley, 12 yrs. old, is the artist. Using an acrylic pour technique, she created this flowy feather. Her design won 3rd place at the 2019 Arkansas State Fair.
Caroline Irmen, 12 yrs. old, is the artist. Her acrylic abstract was made using a credit card, tape for some accent areas, and copper glitter.
Caroline Irmen, 12 yrs. old, is the artist of this acrylic pour painting. Aka is Japanese for Red and Ao is Japanese for Blue.
Paige Smith, 8 years old, is the artist. Using only a credit card, she created an explosion of color with acrylic paints.
