DRIFT Studio
[Designing Reclaimed Items from Trash]
by
Tanya E. Johnson
My name is Tanya E. Johnson. I create art from reclaimed cardboard and items recycled from trash. After graduating with a degree in Art Education, from the University of Maryland, I began my career as an Art Instructor. Currently, I am an administrator with a global child-care company. I have more than 20 years of experience as an educator and artist.
Recently, during the pandemic, I rekindled my love for creating art and have strived to share my style as a 3D cardboard artist. I love depicting my imagination within my artwork to create one-of-a-kind works that go from being trash to being treasured pieces of art. I sculpt with reclaimed cardboard that incorporates recycled items such as jewelry, clothing, packing materials, frames, twine, artificial flowers and hair, hats and various other items from trash turning them into artistic works of original art. I visit thrift shops to collect trashed/secondhand frames and items as well as travel to local lakes and rivers to reclaim driftwood that I turn into wind chimes, spinners, etc.
ABOUT MY STYLE of ART
My work is created from all sorts of trashed items that no longer serve the purpose they were intended for. I give them new life. The frames used are those that have been tossed aside and 100% reclaimed. I use a form of open concept so that the display wall becomes the background which means that my creations can be placed in any room and match your space.
When I rekindled working in my element, I began creating African masks. I have included my early works to show my growth. I have now moved from small and medium-sized original pieces to much larger works. You will notice a rawness that has basically remained throughout my journey. Raw means a rustic unfinished feel and look to some of the pieces. It is meant to be.
I’m open for commissions. Please email me at treunique@aol.com to share your commission requests and learn more about my art process. Visit me on Instagram @ drift_studio_by_tanya.
