Sondra Johnson recently opened Scribbles & Strokes, a small art studio at 2316 Veach Road. The establishment doubles as her home, with a small shop in the front featuring local art and goods. The living room often transforms into a gathering space for hosting classes and lessons.
The studio offers a small selection of paintings, prints, handmade hats, candles, jewelry, and crystals. Johnson is also working on stained glass pieces and printmaking projects for future purchases.
“I have always dreamed of having a studio where I could teach art classes and make, sell, and display art,” Johnson said. “Last summer, my very good friend decided to move her crystal shop, Meta, to Louisville, so the time was right, and I took over her old spot.”
When she’s not on the volleyball court, Johnson’s 14-year-old daughter Zoe lends a helping hand with the operation.
“At present, our hours are varied because of my busy work schedule and Zoe’s love of volleyball,” Johnson said. “When volleyball slows, I will have weekend hours, and once summer arrives, I will be open during the week and hopefully teach a lot of students art at the summer art camps.”
Scribbles & Strokes offers an Intro to Drawing Class, a Figure Drawing Class, Spring Break Art Camps, and Summer Art Camps. They accept students of varying ages and ability levels, with a target group between 5 and 14.
“My goals are for more and more students to be present and having fun,” she said. “A friend told me they like to think that one of these little humans might be the next Picasso. My goals are to share my love for art with the community and to grow to offer more classes like painting and printmaking.”
She plans to incorporate themes, music, and dance during the summer camps, offering an all-around art experience.
Johnson always wanted to be an artist. She graduated from Owensboro Community and Technical College and then Brescia University with a bachelor’s degree in graphic design. She began her career as a designer before transitioning into special education.
“I felt like something was missing and wanted to do something meaningful to make the world a better place,” she said. “I was naturally drawn to teaching after helping several friends earn their GEDs and go to school themselves. I returned to Brescia to earn my second bachelor’s degree — this time in education.”
Johnson launched her teaching career with Daviess County Public Schools at Beacon High School and traveled throughout the district teaching art. She currently teaches special education at Owensboro Middle School and enrolled in graduate school to obtain a master’s degree in teaching art.
“At first, I was scared, as many people are when they step out and try something new like opening a business,” Johnson said. “I was anxious about being able to teach art because it had been a few years. I reached out to my college professor and some old colleagues from my art teaching days, and they all gave me the pep talk I needed.”
Follow Scribbles & Strokes on Facebook here for hours and more information on products and courses. Johnson will also be set up at the first couple of Friday After 5 events to promote the studio.
