Stop Painting

Self-taught contemporary abstract artist from New York. In 2017, after a 30 year gap, I picked up a paint brush for the first time since high school. It was a moment of clarity. Immediately, I had discovered my purpose. The following year, after a two decade career in advertising, I made a life-changing decision and left the corporate world to pursue my art full time. Discovering my art was a long and winding journey. Visually and creatively oriented from a young age, my interest in art increased in high-school and college through a series of painting, ceramics and design classes. However, fear set in. Pursuing an art-related education and career was vague. My confidence was lacking and the expectations to be a successful “corporate citizen” were too great. I succumbed to the “norm”, pursued a path I felt would please others and what I thought I was “supposed” to do. As my career in advertising unfolded, discontent increased. I had reached a point where I felt stuck and the prospect of change was too frightening. I fell victim to addiction which took everything from me, nearly my life. Starting over in 2010, I entered recovery and have been clean and sober since. As I immersed myself in the self-discovery process of recovery, the desire to rekindle my artistic interests increased. It took several more years to reach that “moment” in 2017. Once I embraced my creativity, a sense of joy and peace returned. It was the change my spirit so desperately needed, the catalyst for what I believe to be my true path. My art is my truth - a thoughtful and vulnerable expression of myself and my journey. Painting allows me to express my innermost feelings. To be open, honest and fearless in telling my story of pain and darkness to hope and freedom. Life altering and traumatic experiences, consequences of addiction, recovery, self-discovery, finding my purpose - all are the focal points for my work. Bold, vibrant colors are at the center, reflecting my gratitude and passion for the fullness of life. Color use, movement, shapes, precision and clean lines underpin my style and expression. Bold, with an understated elegance, I seek to inform my work with the sensitivity, honesty and courage to share my story of overcoming. Painting awakens my spirit. Free and with an open heart, I’m able to communicate and connect in the purest fashion. I paint to share my journey, to bare my soul, to heal and to inspire. Instagram: @chris_johnsonart