The following speech was originally presented by Diane Johnson at An Evening with Artists: An ArtsForward Fundraiser on December 12th, 2024.

I’m a visual artist, writer, and creative. I’m a proud grandma of eight wonderful grandchildren who are also inspiring artists.

Art is something I’ve always done. I can remember sitting around the kitchen table while my mom cooked. Making paper dolls and designing houses and clothes for them. I would do this all day with a bag of fabulous art supplies: a number two pencil, and a box of eight Crayola crayons.

Moving forward past many seasons, my art journey has been, for the most part, steady. And that’s because of the love and encouragement I’ve received from my family and friends. And I have been blessed to be a part of a culturally enriched community of artists. Folks who are willing to share their expertise and wisdom. Shared deep-seated conversations about their failures and successes. Friends looking out for each other. They’ve created a treasure chest of wisdom that I continue to rely upon.

The Creative Investment Program offered me the opportunity to take an online workshop, How to Illustrate Children’s Books, through Maine Media College with instructor Lucky Platt.

Photos by: The Green Photograph

The workshop addressed the basics–how to create a 32-page color thumbnail sketch, how to create a picture dummy book, and illustration layouts for your book, including vignette illustrations, spot illustrations, and spread illustrations.

The class was great. The instructor was down-to-earth, and the 6-hour sessions were packed with activities.

In addition to workshops like this one, gathering resources, and professional development, I will continue to aim at being more intentional, being myself, being there, listening, and offering my support in any way I can.

Lastly, I believe art is an expression of one’s life experience. It’s a form of communication. I love that I can tell a story and share a part of myself without words. And create without an audience.

Art allows me the freedom to express my ideas without the pressure or concern that it may or may not be successful. Thank you.