About

Kimberly Virginia Johnson

Born 1960 in Oakland, California

A trained illustrator, Kimberly Virginia Johnson attended the San Francisco Academy of Art from 2009 to 2011. Her artistic practice encompasses pastels, charcoal, acrylics, and digital illustration, all focused on capturing the essence of Black American life and humanity. Kimberly's figurative works, deeply rooted in love, portray diverse archetypes that radiate fearlessness and beauty, inviting viewers to see reflections of themselves within her art.

In 2016, her work was featured in the significant exhibition "The Black Woman is God" at the SOMArts Cultural Center in San Francisco, curated by Karen Seneferu and Melorra Green. This exhibition aimed to dismantle patriarchal narratives that have historically undervalued the contributions of Black women, garnering attention from CBS News and SF Gate for its powerful message. Kimberly has also exhibited in the "Transformative Art & Juneteenth" exhibition at the Abrams Claghorn Gallery and participated in "The Art of The African Diaspora" satellite exhibition at the Ethnic Notions Gallery. These platforms further showcase her commitment to representing the richness of Black culture and the importance of cultural celebration.

In the spring of 2019, Kimberly participated in "A Portrait in Diversity: The Art of Living Black," further highlighting her dedication to portraying the complexity and beauty of Black identities. Her artistic practice draws inspiration from a wide array of subjects, including ancient arts, Black history, and metaphysics.

Beyond her artistic endeavors, Kimberly is dedicated to community engagement, volunteering with the philanthropic organization The Spirit of Oakland. Through her art and service, she continues to contribute to the cultural tapestry of her community.