How long have I been an artist?
Since 1997
Are you formally Trained?
Received a BFA MA painting degrees from Fontbonne University where I am working on my MFA
What kind of art do you make?
I produce primarily abstract oil, watercolor & mixed media paintings which vary from small intimate pieces to large scale works
What draws you to the medium you use?
The physicality of enamel & oil paints where the act of painting becomes an expression of my deep inner thoughts distilled through my life travels and perceptions of everyday experiences.
How long have you been involved with Gateway Gallery?
I am one of the founding members of the gallery which opened in September 2004
What are your greatest artistic influences?
My influences vary as my painting style matures, currently Philip Guston, Joan Mitchell,Arthur Dove,& Mark Tobey's theories and styles have influenced my new work, especially the new series"Eye of the World"
What music do you listen to while creating? I love classical(Tchaikovsky), jazz & rock(Greatful Dead)
Where is your studio & what is it like? My studio is a 3000 square foot old warehouse with tall ceilings in University City just north of the Delmar Loop where I usually paint my large pieces on canvas mounted on the walls or laid on the floor
What is the most rewarding part of being an artist? That's a 3 part answer: 1) the recognition from art critiques when they select my work for juried shows where the public can view my creations 2)When an individual relates to my paintings and invests in one of my pieces by making it part of their life and home 3) passing on my artistic talents to other artists especially my young daughters who love to draw and paint
Sheldon Johnson 6725 Olive University City
