Today we’d like to introduce you to Jaye Johnson.
Jaye, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
My journey as an artist began in Garland, Texas. I discovered a deep love of drawing at such a young age that my oldest memories include art supplies. Initially a personal pursuit, my art served as a form of self-expression, therapy, and exploration. As I matured, however, so did my artistry—evolving from a hobby into a dream career!
With courage, determination, and support from my friends, family, and partner, I made the bold decision to start Artfully LLC, fully embracing the artistic path laid before me. Now, as I navigate the life of an artist in Dallas, I am not only following my dreams but also shaping a narrative uniquely my own, where creativity knows no bounds and every moment to create tells a story of growth and endless opportunity.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
In the beginning, I felt a mix of excitement and uncertainty as I embarked on my journey as a professional artist. Unsure of where to start, I shared my work on social media and began accepting personalized commissions. It was thrilling to see others appreciate my art and to collaborate with clients to create something truly unique. Despite the challenges and obstacles I faced along the way, I gradually found my rhythm and navigated the logistical aspects of running an art business.
One breakthrough moment came when I decided to launch my own coloring book empire. Developing my Artfully Adult Coloring Book series, available on Amazon and through direct purchase, was undeniably one of the most challenging endeavors I’ve undertaken, but I’m incredibly proud of the result and the positive feedback from others.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
As a portrait artist specializing in graphite and black-and-white mediums, I’ve always found solace and joy in capturing the intricacies of the human face. Despite the challenges often associated with portraiture, it’s a craft that has always felt natural to me. However, my artistic journey extends beyond the monochrome; over the past two years, I’ve ventured into the realm of painting, gradually gaining confidence and proficiency with color. While portraits remain my primary focus, I’m eager to further explore and expand my skills in painting, embracing the vibrant world of color to bring new dimensions to my art.
One of my proudest achievements has been reclaiming my confidence as I push my artistic skills to the next level. Encouraged by my partner during a time when I doubted my abilities, I hesitantly returned to my old sketchbook. Despite feeling rusty at first, the muscle memory returned, and I felt more familiar with each sketch. It was like the rediscovery of a language I had neglected, a testament to the importance of practicing your craft and simply enjoying the journey as something to be very proud of.
From my earliest memories, drawing has been an instinctive form of expression, and I work to evoke specific emotions that resonate deeply with viewers. It’s this innate connection to art, coupled with the ability to convey profound feelings in a graphic way, that distinguishes me and my work in the art world. My signature style reveals a universal beauty across subjects while also magnifying the unique energy of each muse. I also find inspiration in the human form and its coexistence with nature, revisiting these themes often through a whimsical, dreamy lens. My mission is to inspire everyone to appreciate the inherent beauty of their authentic self and their personal journey.
If you had to, what characteristic of yours would you give the most credit to?
The most important quality for my success as an artist is the ability to learn from mistakes without taking them personally. It is critical to recognize art as deeply personal without allowing that fact to hinder growth.
Constant practice is another key factor in my journey, as I strive to continuously improve and evolve. I take every opportunity to draw, even if it’s just for a short time, because I know that each moment spent honing my art is a step forward in my artistic development.
Pricing:
- Stickers $8
- Artfully Adult Coloring Book & Affirmations $24.99
- **SIGNED** Artfully Adult Coloring Book & Affirmations $55.00
- Commissions starting at $200
- Original work starting at $1,200
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.cognitoforms.com/ArtfullyJaye1/SupportArtfullyByJayeJohnson
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/artfullyjaye/
- Other: https://linktr.ee/artfullyjaye
Image Credits
Jaye Johnson
