Meet Rochelle Johnson: Contemporary Painter

We had the good fortune of connecting with Rochelle Johnson and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Rochelle, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
I pursued an artistic career because it calmed my world. I remember starting college as a computer science major. Taking an art class relaxed me and I did not want to give up that feeling. 

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am on a mission to talk about the human condition. Today, I’m exploring my Blue World Series. This series talks about the mystery of Black Women Bodies. Through out history Black women have played a back role to being recognized as well as being vilified in society. In fact we are largely invisible. I chose blue as a neutral color so that skin color would not imped the viewers ability to see the painting for what it is.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Lately, I have been exploring the Five Points neighborhood where I happen to live. COVID has kept me on a short lease. If I were to show someone around the neighborhood the first place to go for brunch is Mimosas. Later in the evening I would suggest the Welton Room for cocktails.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I’d like to give a shoutout to RedLine Contemporary Art Center for choosing me as an artist in residence for the year of 2020. This is a major step in my career and it will allow me to work bigger so that I can explore where painting will take me next.

Website: www.rochellejohnsonstudio.com
Instagram: @rochellejohnsonstudio