A Whirlwind of a Winter

My dear friends,

I've been holding off on writing a blog entry so that I could introspect and make sense of these last few months. I’ve had a lot of pain to sort through but that isn’t to say that I’ve lost sight of my progress either. Life as always continues to be brutal and blissful. Overwhelming and magnificent. Shocking and inspiring. This entry will acknowledge all of it.

The Amanda James Gallery and Amanda Johnson Studio boutique are rocking! While the past two years have been an uphill battle, it is thanks to the amazing help we’ve gained and our fabulous customers that we have persevered and grown. When I feel overwhelmed, I am thankful to remember that I am surrounded by so many wonderful people.

My work has been a great relief as well. The kaftans are a hit and it brings me so much joy to see people enjoy wearing them as much as I do. In a time when leggings and athleisure wear have taken over, it’s nice to feel chic in a kaftan. Please keep an eye out for updates to come as I will be adding more custom prints over the summer.

Recreational Recommendations

To help unwind I have been watching "Somebody Somewhere" on HBO max. I love this show so much and I can’t wait for the next season. It’s beautiful, devastating, and hilarious.

James and I have also been obsessively watching climbing documentaries. One that really stands out is Alex Honnold’s "Free Solo". I’m wildly impressed by his skills and the literal edges that he pushes himself to overcome. Documentaries like this really inspire me and give me a different outlook and tools for problem solving in my own endeavors.

My Mother

With the good news and gratitude also comes heartbreak. My mother Leitner Winstead left her body January 23rd, 2022. You can read more about her amazing life at her obituary shared here: Leitner Winstead Obituary (2022) - Baltimore, MD - Baltimore Sun (legacy.com)

My mom was an unbelievably kind, talented, and beautiful woman who helped and encouraged so many people along her life's path. I am honored to call her my mother and cannot stress enough the beacon she has been for me as an artist, a woman, and a human being.

I am still processing her death and want to say a heartfelt thank you for all the calls, texts, and donations in her name. My Mom's wife/my stepmom Monte and our family will be celebrating her life May 9th in Baltimore, Md.

For those wishing to attend please email me at AmandaJohnsonStudio@gmail.com.

Cherish your loved ones and always celebrate them for the beauty they bring to your world.

With love,

- Amanda J.