Magnify – get to know Emily Johnson

This week, we introduce two artists taking part in Magnify – a creative development process throughout 2021’s long lockdown. We began with hip hop artist, musician and graphic artist, Shannon Smith. The second artist is illustrator and content creator Emily Johnson. Read Emily Johnson‘s response to our questions below.

How has the lockdown impacted your creative process?

Fortunately for me, I have been able to continue illustrating at home and producing works throughout lockdown, however the engagement with community as well as not being able to reconnect with country has been a challenge. I usually travel to see my dad and family back home in Broken Hill, with a trip planned for August this year which was unfortunately, not able to happen–however seeing community efforts for outreach and services has been uplifting. I will definitely travel back home when it’s safe to do so and artistically and culturally recharge!

What are your thoughts and how do you feel about participating in Magnify as an emerging artist?

I think it’s been an incredible opportunity to create works and contribute to this program during a time of such uncertainty and distress (especially for the arts sector). It’s an honour to be able to make works and have them showcased to hopefully provide further healing and enjoyment for audience and community coming out of lockdown.

What can people look forward to about your art work in Magnify?

My work will be a showcase of the diversity, spirit and strength of our First Nations youth (who are our future). By viewing these characters I hope to empower young people to be proud of who they are, as well as our greater community to love and accept them too.