Bio /Artist's Statement/Media

Artist's Statement:

Throughout my 24-year journey as an artist, my work has blossomed into an exploration of color, texture, and light, with an enduring commitment to creating vibrant and expressive paintings. I began with oil pastel portraits, predominantly of children, and evolved into representational oil paintings encompassing a range of subjects, including portraiture and figurative work. Today, I find myself passionately engaged in impressionist color work and abstract compositions.

A pivotal moment in my artistic development came when I unexpectedly found myself drawn to the craft of acting. This foray allowed me to delve deeply into emotions, uncovering a raw and immediate honesty within myself. It prompted a profound question: "What is it that I really want?" The answer was, quite simply, "to feel love." With this realization, I returned to painting, seeking to evoke nostalgia, childhood memories, and a tranquil sense of place. While painting, I often enter a meditative state filled with a sense of peace and love, and I hope that you, too, can feel this in my work.

The subjects I select are often inspired by the beauty of nature and the stories that people tell. Whether capturing a breathtaking landscape or creating abstract pieces inspired by these elements, I strive to convey extraordinary beauty and narratives worth sharing. My inspirations come from visions received during meditation and my experiences in nature.

My unique technique begins with a vibrant color underpainting, over which I carefully draw my composition. From there, I apply multiple layers of bright colored paint. This method brings depth and dynamism to my art, making each piece a vivid journey of exploration.

In all these ways, my art is a reflection of my quest for love, peace, and beauty. I invite you to discover the stories and emotions embedded within each piece and to embark on your own journey through the colors and textures of my creations.

Bio:

Brenda Johnson, a remarkable talent who seamlessly transitioned from the hustle and bustle of New York’s commercial art scene to the serene landscapes of fine art in Phoenix, Arizona, has a story that resonates deeply within the art community. Born in Frankfort, Indiana, and raised in the quiet environs of Danville, Illinois, Brenda’s journey into the world of art had an auspicious beginning. Her prodigious abilities were evident long before she envisioned a life as an artist; as a child, she was celebrated through numerous drawing contests and was the recipient of the prestigious William A. Arnold Fine Art Scholarship.

Completing her Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in graphic design from the University of Illinois in 1987, Brenda embarked on her professional path in the commercial art realm of New York City. She worked for industry giants like CBS Records, Time Inc., and Saatchi and Saatchi Advertising, honing her skills and cultivating a keen understanding of visual aesthetics.

By 2000, Brenda realized that her true passion lay beyond the confines of commercial art. Settling in the Phoenix area, she pursued her long-held dream of becoming a fine artist. This journey commenced with intimate portrait commissions of children and pets in oil pastel—a craft she mastered independently. Eager to expand her repertoire, Brenda delved into the world of oil painting, studying under eminent artists like Diane Leonard, Xiang Zhang, Bye Bitney, Nancy Chaboun and others at Scottsdale Artist’s School, further refining her technique.

Brenda's art, celebrated for its emotive depth and technical finesse, is inspired by the beauty of everyday life and the intricate interplay of light and shadow. Her choice of subject matter spans the human experience and the natural world, often exploring the unique connection between the two. Her creative process is driven by a meditative connection to her subjects, drawing on spontaneous inspiration and a meticulous attention to detail.

Her works have garnered the attention of collectors and enthusiasts alike, appearing in prominent galleries and exhibitions. Brenda's signature style is distinguished by a vivid interplay of color and form, creating pieces that resonate with an intrinsic warmth and authenticity. Over the years, she has undertaken numerous rewarding projects, each imbued with personal significance, which she cites as instrumental in her continued artistic evolution.

Brenda’s influences are as diverse as her craft—ranging from classical masters to contemporary innovators—and she proudly affiliates with several artist organizations that continue to shape her perspectives and professional growth. While her pieces have earned accolades, the art world sets her apart for her unique voice and vision.

Outside the studio, Brenda finds solace in the simplicity of life with her husband and three grown daughters in Phoenix. An avid hiker and enthusiast of Arizona’s stunning landscapes, she allows these experiences to weave into the fabric of her art, enriching it with a distinctive narrative and alignment with her personal values and aspirations.

Ultimately, Brenda Johnson’s art is a testament to the transformative power of creativity, serving as an evocative commentary on the role of art in capturing and preserving the essence of human and natural interconnectedness. As she continues her journey, Brenda remains dedicated to evolving her craft and broadening the impact of her work within and beyond the artistic community.

Awards and Affiliations

1. Grand Prize at the Oil Pastel Association annual show   

2. Best in Show at the Midwest Oil Painters Competition

3. Peoples Choice Award at the Designer Show House, California

4. The John F. Sanders Award of Excellence  

5. First Place Blue Ribbon at The Robeson's Art Exhibition  

6. Honorable Mention at the Scottsdale Art Show

7. Listed in Best Portrait Artists of America   

8. William Arnold Fine Arts Scholarship

9. Shared her artistic expertise on television, demonstrating techniques with oil pastels  

10. Had her work featured in Arizona Foothills Magazine