Meet Indya Smith-Johnson

Today we’d like to introduce you to Indya Smith-Johnson.

Every artist has a unique story. Can you briefly walk us through yours?
I have been creating art for as long as I can remember, and it wasn’t until freshmen year of high school that I had the opportunity to take art classes. It was there that I got to really expand my collection of works and build my skill level. After my second class, I was asked to interview to join AP studio, a college-level art class for 2D and design sophomore year. That was my first glimpse of what the real art world looked like because here I was and still am surrounded by amazing artists, who pushed me to grow my skills to where they are now. I am now a Sophomore in high school, and I have dabbled in many mediums, Acrylic Paints, Sculpture, Oil pastels, Soft Pastels Alcohol, Ink, Colored Pencils, and more. My true passion is, however, Watercolor paintings. These have come out to be my best works and have gotten my accepted to multiple programs as well as won Awards. Creating watercolor paintings is my favorite way to express myself and create a beautiful piece in the process.

Please tell us about your art.
I create watercolor paintings, primarily portraits. My inspiration comes from the people around me, their thoughts, feelings, and the general energy that they present. I choose the colors based on this energy and layer them accordingly. My goal is for people to feel the way that the person in the painting is feeling, and to take away the idea that people are complex whether you can see it on the outside or not.

Given everything that is going on in the world today, do you think the role of artists has changed? How do local, national or international events and issues affect your art?
I think it has become very difficult for local artists to get their work presented to the public. Because there are now so many people making art, the opportunities to have your art showcased in a fashion that may earn you money have become scarce. This intense competition has pushed me to make as much art as possible, an at the best quality I can.

How or where can people see your work? How can people support your work?
I have an art account on Instagram, the name of which is ‘art_ate_my_life.’ My art has also been showcased in the scholastics arts and writing awards. I can be supported by people commissioning me to create stylized portraits of their favorite actors, friends, family, etc. those who wish to support me can contact me through Instagram as my account is public.

Contact Info:

• Address: 508 Bernie Ct
• Phone: 8157139327
• Email: ijsmithjohnson@stu.naperville203.org
• Instagram: art_ate_my_life

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