After nearly three and a half years out of the spotlight, we were able to catch up with the remarkable artist, Dan Johnson. A talented oil painter from the UK who is best known for portraits and the human figure. Dan recently moved into a charming new home with a garden that’s been attracting all kinds of wildlife. Birds and foxes have become his latest muse, sparking his urge to get back into painting. Here is a glimpse into his art journey!

Identity as an artist:

Dan has been a creative individual for most of his life. Starting in early childhood, he loved drawing. He’s done everything from comics to caricatures, but his main passion turned out to be painting. He began painting in his early twenties. Although he’s technically described as a self-taught artist, due to not having any formal training, he credits much of his skill to what he’s learned from others. In his portrait series, The Self-taught Myth, he explores what it means to be a self-taught artist. It features portraits of the people who’ve influenced him, along with examples of artwork he created using their techniques. It’s an insightful read accompanied by beautiful paintings.

Discovering the perfect medium:

Dan has experimented with many art mediums, including acrylics, watercolours, pen and ink, and even gouache! However, he eventually realized that oil paints were his favorite. 

“It took me quite a while to get to grips with it, and at first I was always too cautious, painting very thinly and carefully. Gradually I loosened up and became more bold with my brushwork, trying to adopt the mentality of painting like a millionaire. I love seeing those thick, juicy brush strokes when you get up close.” —Dan Johnson

What he appreciates most about oil paint, despite many artists finding it intimidating, is the freedom it gives him. Unlike acrylic, oil takes longer to dry, which allows for greater flexibility as he works.

Living a balanced life:

When it comes to balancing art with the demands of daily life, Dan takes a relaxed approach. As mentioned earlier, he recently ended a break from painting and has taken up the hobby once again.

“Last year we moved to a house with a garden that attracts plenty of birds, bought a decent camera and zoom lens, and I’ve been busy trying to learn how to use them.” —Dan Johnson

His wildlife photography is vibrant and magazine worthy! These photos are available on his photo blog.  Dan doesn’t rely on his art for income, which gives him the rare privilege of creating purely for the enjoyment of it.

“People who depend on their art for their livelihood won't have that option, but I think it's important to take breaks when you need them, especially if you start to feel burnt out, or like you're not enjoying the process as much as you used to. If you're not enjoying it, then what's the point? You might as well spend your time on something more fulfilling.” —Dan Johnson

Words of Wisdom for Aspiring Artists:

For artists looking for some motivation, Dan has this nugget of advice:

 “If you want to get better at something, practice doing it a lot. For example, drawing 100 heads in 4 months back in 2018 really helped me improve my portrait skills. It doesn't even have to take a lot of time. Sketching consistently for just 10 minutes a day will really help you level up over time.”- Dan Johnson. 

He gives a great example of how practicing skills regularly leads to more improvement than just working on a single project. In the parable from Art & Fear a ceramics teacher instructed half of the class to work on a single pot while the other half were told to create as many pots as they could. This exercise proved that those repeatedly practicing making pots were able to make the best ones. For Dan, consistency—not perfection—is the key to improvement.

Feeling inspired?

To experience Dan Johnson’s artwork firsthand, you can explore his website, photo blog, and keep up with him on social media.

Website: https://danjohnsonart.co.uk

Photo Blog: https://dans.blog 

The Self-Taught Myth: The Self-Taught Myth – Dan Johnson Fine Art

Instagram: @danjohnsonart

Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/danjohnsonart.bsky.social

“You’re also very welcome to use my photos as art reference. If you do, please let me know so I can admire your work!”-Dan Johnson.