Judith Johnson Sacramento CA Age 68
What keeps you excited in the studio? My ideas line up like jets waiting for take-off. I keep thumbnail sketches of ideas or make quick collages of ideas to preserve the inspiration.
Looking back at your trajectory as an artist, how would you say your work has developed? I have been working seriously on my work since my senior year of high school. After finding studio space in Austin my work really expanded, especially because I was also working as a scenic artist in a huge theatre complex. When I had children my artwork continued, but I had no bandwidth for the “business of art” because my son had 14 brain surgeries. After he became healthy again, my art regained momentum. Being able to retire from my tedious day job has allowed me to keep my ideas moving forward and try new things. Earlier, I though of myself as a painter, but now I build almost as many 3D pieces as paintings.
What role do you think the artist has in today’s society? Many roles for artists: pointing out injustice, bringing focus to our environment, expressing emotion, or just celebrating being a maker.
What’s the most important advice you could give to an aspiring artist? Follow your thoughts and let your art talk back to you. Don’t feel pressured to keep doing the same thing over and over, if you’re ready to move on.
Does age matter in art? Why or why not? I think my work has improved with my lived experience. However, ageism is definitely a thing.
What can we look forward to from you next? I am completing the 12th assemblage in a series called Bike Lanes. I cycle for my primary form of transportation. I am also working on a series of maps celebrating and commemorating some recents hikes in my adopted home state of California.
Is there anything else you would like to share about being an artist later in life? I am glad to have the strength & energy to be productive. And I have a thicker skin when it comes to rejection!
judithjohnson-artist.com @judith.fa.johnson
A Walk in the Park – Pinnacles, Acrylic on archival panel, 24X36, 2024