As an extremely versatile multi-media artist, I work primarily in Abstract Expressionism, with cues drawn from past memories, extensive travels, and life experiences.
My body of work is characterized by:
Rich Layering: Creating depth and texture through the deliberate, slow overlapping of oils, acrylics, latex, and silicone encaustic over a period of time.
Bold Coloration: Deftly mixing chromatic strokes with achromatic tones, using deep grays, blues, greens, and reds to obtain unique, complex nuances.
Gestural Energy: Emphasizing energetic, animated brush strokes, splatters, and drips that balance poetic form with a sense of surprise and spontaneity.
My creative output is energized by the contrast between my two studio locations:
Kauai, Hawaii: My studio in Hawaii is surrounded by the ocean's inspiration, with valley views that shimmer with waterfalls and rainbows.
Charlotte, North Carolina: My studio in Charlotte is near a secret forest, nestled in the vibrant energy of a beautiful cosmopolitan city.
The exploration between this island freedom and the energy of city living is profoundly evident in my style and creations.
Cheryl Johnson (b. 1947, Kellogg, Idaho) is a long-established, mid-career American painter.
Education & Background
Art Career Highlights
Academic: Received a BFA from Oral Roberts University and an MA in Education from the University of Tulsa.
Style: Primarily an Abstract Expressionist, inspired by masters like Joan Mitchell, Mark Rothko, and Gerhard Richter.
Professional Transition: After a long and varied corporate career, including 20+ years in senior roles as a Talent Manager and Websites Manager at IBM, Cheryl retired in 2010 to pursue her love of painting full-time.
Exhibitions: Regularly exhibits work in galleries and art fairs throughout North America.
International Recognition: Selected as an Art in Embassies Artist, contributing to cross-cultural dialogue through visual arts in U.S. embassy residences around the world.
Travel: Travels extensively to visit major global museums (Louvre, Tate, Guggenheim, Uffizi Gallery) to study the masters, using these experiences to inform her color and technique.
Invest in Art That Inspires. I invite you to explore my portfolio and discover the perfect pieces to elevate your space and inspire your soul.