Meet Sarah Johnson

Today we’d like to introduce you to Sarah Johnson.  

Hi Sarah, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I grew up in Dallas in a very artistic home. I am in the middle of three girls and we were always painting, singing, and being creative. After graduating from The University of Texas in 2010, I started a faith-based art and gift business called King’s Daughters with my mom. I enjoyed learning how to wear all the “hats” of entrepreneurship. 

In 2017, I really started focusing on my songwriting. I shared my songs with friends and they offered to host a home concert. It was incredible to see how people resonated with my music! After a couple years of music being a hobby, I decided to “go for it.” I went to Nashville to find a producer and learn all about the music industry. Little did I know I would discover my dream producer right here in Dallas, Texas – as well as Dallas’ thriving music scene. I recorded six songs at Modern Electric Studios. Two songs have been released and more are coming this year (next single release is February 11th – be on the lookout!). 

In addition to being a musician, I am also an artist. I launched Sarah Johnson Fine Art in 2021 and paint artwork for homes and offices. The mission of my artwork is to inspire people to live with joy and purpose. I sell from Instagram as well as galleries across the United States, including The Collective here in Dallas. 

Most of my time is spent booking gigs, painting, marketing my work, writing and performing my music. Even though creative entrepreneurship isn’t always the easiest path, I am blessed to use my gifts and talents every day––and I am thrilled about the opportunities coming my way! 2022 is going to be a very exciting year. 

I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle-free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
I think this question gives me an opportunity to be honest. My road has not been smooth! I say that because of two reasons… 

1.) Although I am so blessed in so many areas, creative entrepreneurship has its own set of struggles. I think the biggest obstacle is figuring out how to wear every hat. I am not only the creator and artist, but I am also the marketer, booker, businesswoman, social media manager, and even accountant! 

Time management is key – and a great planner! Also, just an attitude of gratitude that I get to do what I love every day. 

2.) Sometimes it feels like there are 100 “nos” for every “yes.” Pursuing your dreams includes many highs and lows. I’ve had to learn resilience, persistence, and how to first and foremost serve people’s needs with my gifts and talents. 

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
My next single, “Look What You’ve Done” was just released February 11th. It’s a very happy song about falling head over heels in love! It’s a great soundtrack for your next date night. 

In the art world, I am very excited about my new series called “Joyful Radiance.” I tried breaking outside my comfort zone as far as style and color – and I am thrilled with the results! It is always an honor to have my artwork on people’s walls and I love seeing the joy on their faces when they hang it on their wall. 

Can you talk to us a bit about the role of luck?
I have to reference the age-old quote, “luck is when preparation meets opportunity.” I think preparation is being clear with your goals, practicing your skills, developing relationships, doing your homework about your industry, creating amazing work, and serving people well. Then when an opportunity comes, you are ready for that door to fly open! 

With music, I’ve been leading worship at church since I was in 5th grade. Even though I’m just releasing music– I have two decades of preparation behind me. So, it’s not luck that I performed well at a show, it’s tons of work that led to that moment. 

With art, I’ve been painting since childhood and constantly growing in my craft. So, when I go into the studio and create a piece that I’m proud of, it’s not luck that the colors mixed well…it’s a lifetime of studying color that led to that amazing moment of creativity! 

Yes, you can be at the right place at the right time––but if you’re not prepared, the moment will be lost! 

Image Credits
@lostpostcardphotography
@chriskleinmeier
@sarahyarbrough.jpg