Ken Johnson

I am a Southern heritage feather painter. Feather painting is a Native American artform which was handed down to me.

In 2001, Jeb Bush, Governor of the State of Florida, abolished state recognition for non-federally recognized tribes. This made it illegal for American Indian artists, from over 500 non-recognized Florida tribes, to call their work "American Indian Made" or to call themselves "Native American artists."

Enraged, I quickly took up a leadership position in my tribe and started promoting my artwork as a protest to this onerous change in Florida legislation. I use my paintings not only as a protest but also as a way to showcase causes, key concepts, social justice issues, ecological issues, history, and more.

Since then, I have become a multi-award winning author on social justice issues. I often marry my art and my writing (i.e., doing feather painting talking pieces for Restorative Justice circle sessions and also for the cover image of one of my books). I am also a member of Animating Democracy.

I am most known for my intricate detail and unique interpretation of concepts. I am also known for conveying feeling through my art.

In one instance, I had been rejected by a local gallery and told I had no art...

I started college at the age of 16 after trying to drop out of high school with a 3.5 GPA. Later, after graduating Pensacola Junior College (n/k/a Pensacola State College), I received a B.A. in Social Sciences from the University of West Florida and an M.B.A. from St. Leo University. While at UWF, I gained advanced training in advanced Restorative Juctice practices. I also have certifications from the US Department of Agriculture and Floruda Supreme Court as a mediator.