Johnny Green

I’m a Houstonian, born and raised. Houston is home, and it’s a part of who I am and the journey I’ve taken as an artist.

Being creative means bringing my imagination to life and expressing emotions, ideas, and experiences that words alone cannot convey. Through my art, I tell stories, challenge perspectives, and transform my vision into something others can connect with and interpret in their own way. To me, creativity is more than making art, it’s about inspiring and encouraging others to see the world from a different perspective.

I realized art was something I truly needed to pursue when I noticed that no matter what was going on in my life, I always found my way back to creating. I was constantly looking for ways to learn, grow, and challenge myself as an artist. Seeing how my work could connect with people and evoke emotion made me realize that art was more than just a passion—it was a gift I wanted to continue developing and sharing with the world.

When I create, I usually begin with an idea and reference photos, but I don’t always know what the finished piece will look like. I allow my creativity to guide me as the painting takes shape, trusting my instincts and embracing the unexpected. My faith is also an important part of my process because I believe my gift has a purpose. I trust God, remain open to inspiration, and give each piece the time and attention it deserves. Some of the most meaningful details emerge when I let go of expectations and allow the creative process to unfold naturally.

My TLC painting is one of the most meaningful pieces I’ve ever created. I poured my heart into honoring T-Boz, Left Eye, and Chilli and their lasting impact on music and culture. Being invited to the It’s Iconic Tour in Houston and having the opportunity to go backstage and personally present my paintings to TLC was a true full-circle moment. To create something inspired by these incredible women and then place my artwork directly into their hands is an experience I’ll cherish forever.

My art is my way of telling stories that hold personal meaning. When I create a portrait, I want to capture more than someone’s likeness; I want to honor their identity, their impact, and the memories associated with them. I’m drawn to the stories behind the faces, whether it’s an artist who inspired me, a loved one, or a moment worth remembering. My goal is to evoke emotion, spark memories, and remind people of the individuals and experiences that have shaped their lives. Ultimately, I want my art to preserve those meaningful connections in a way that lasts beyond the canvas.

I would love to explore sculpture and learn how to bring my artistic ideas to life in a completely different way. Since I primarily create paintings, I think working in three dimensions would challenge me creatively and give me another way to express myself through art.

The best advice I've received is, “Never be afraid to experiment with different art styles and mediums. Just let your creative juices flow.” That advice reminds me not to limit myself creatively. I want to keep exploring new ideas, trying different approaches, and allowing myself the freedom to grow as an artist without being afraid to make mistakes.