What's Kicking? A Fantastic Show & New Babouches!

There is so much to update everyone on that it feels overwhelming sitting down to write it all out!

The last few months of summer were quiet but we managed to stay busy with moving and traveling to and from Baltimore to prepare for my solo show (Gallery Blue Door - Grand Illusions Part I) and see my family. My Mom is healing one day at a time and while we’re grateful for where she is in her recovery, please keep her in your thoughts as she goes through her second phase of treatments.

Now that we’re in season, I can’t believe how fast time is flying. The opening and closing of the show came and went in the blink of an eye. I’d like to thank all of my supporters and clients who came from all over, including some VIP guests from New York, West Palm Beach, and Los Angeles. Without your continued engagement, I couldn’t do what I love for a living.

The show brought a lot of unique challenges and I was worried if it’d be received well but I’m happy to say it was a huge success. A year’s worth of work went into the show and then James and I drove it all up (an adventure in and of itself!). A lot of new collectors made their way to the gallery and it was one of our most successful turnouts. I’m so incredibly grateful to have had such an amazing experience in my hometown. Reconnecting with lifelong friends and sharing new pieces is a gift I’ll cherish forever. There are so many obstacles to overcome when trying to travel and sell your work as an artist but when you have an adventure like this, it’s always worth it!

Our drive home was just as eventful as the journey up, most notably when we broke down in Chester, Virginia then James drove us down to North Carolina through the snow. We also made a quick stop at one of my favorite places, South of The Border. I could easily dedicate a blog entry to the collection of activities and wares to check out there.

So the show has closed and we’re back in Sunny Florida. What’s coming up next? Something that I’ve been dying to share for some time now. Six months to be exact. In that time, I’ve been working with a wonderful woman named Caryn (Coast & Koi) in Cape Town, South Africa. I have sent her a colorful array of my custom created textiles, my hand fabricated gems and ornate trims from my travels. She has spun her magic and together we have created a divine collection of beautiful footwear.

You can take a look at The Museum Collection at this link below: https://www.amandajohnsonstudio.com/shoes

I’ve found myself tracking so many threads all at once as I work on pushing myself as an artist and creator. We’ve been a little behind with our website as we look for someone to help us update and run it so if you have any special holiday needs, don’t be afraid to give me a call or come in to the store!

Better yet, join us for this Friday’s upcoming Art Walk. I’ll have some copies of my limited edition book on sale plus it’s a great opportunity to socialize with this wonderful community. Information about the Art Walk can be found at this link here: https://www.facebook.com/events/804350376669173/?active_tab=about

I do want to address some unfortunate news that has struck as I would like to pay respect. We had a friend very suddenly pass away on Sunday and we want to convey our deepest sympathy to the Griggs family. Jeffrey was an amazing man and a true inspiration to us all.

Cherish life and those that are dearest.

- Amanda J.