When I think back to a year ago, I wonder what's better about my life now. Fourteen new paintings transpired in response to this time of solitude. A BIG plus. Some of my edges softened, others magnified a bit, so I've learned what needs the work. There are those smaller ordinary moments I savor more today. Like stillness, laughter, touch. Or when someone somewhere unexpectedly reminds me I am much loved, and I choose to pay it forward.

I may still lose sight of the gift now and then, but I know that when I step into the studio, accepting change comes more naturally. Time shifts. Every line I draw carries its own weight. Each mark or brushstroke embodies a unique character. It's a safe place to take leaps. And if for one brief nanosecond I manage to translate this process into the anxiety-ridden hum of my day, I'm in bliss. 

You bet, the studio grounds me. Intuitively. Introspectively. I sit fully with my emotions, assimilating a world in constant flux while losing myself in the unexpected mysteries of life. I thrive there, and value this process, not only as a healing one, but for it's potential to transcend language barriers and illuminate a shared global humanity. The possibilities are endless.

Humor me while I revisit those softened edges for a moment. It's not often that I split a format down the middle. And like so many others, this image seemed to evolve out of nowhere. No conscious intention. She's a tiny little thing, but when I stood back across the room, she brought to mind all the physical and conceptual edges encountered in life, and the importance of remaining open to what I don't know yet. Not always handled with grace, but getting there…

Recent, Current & Upcoming Exhibitions:  Altho the curtain has lowered on a couple of these, I'd like to acknowledge all the artists, curators, organizations, friends and art lovers, who have passionately worked to keep the visual and performing arts alive in our local communities throughout this challenging time. We rarely see some of these people, yet behind the scenes, their presence is priceless.

Huge hugs to you all. You'll find recent work of mine in each event below. Learn more with just a click. : )

Artwork / Photography © Roxie Johnson 2021. All rights reserved.