The Redmond Saturday Market, which opens May 2 at 7730 Leary Way NE, has chosen 18-year-old artist Stephanie K. Johnson to paint the image for its 2009 opening day poster. Johnson’s poster image vividly depicts an abundance of colorful, farm-fresh produce and neighbors mingling outdoors on a glorious Pacific Northwest Saturday.
This homeschooled 12th-grader from Kent has participated in the Redmond Saturday Market since 2001 when she heard about their “Kids’ Day” opportunities. She’s now a rising star in the Western Washington art community.
“I was 11 at the time and tried to sell some prints there and was very successful,” said Johnson. She’s since become a full member of the market, having been screened by a committee that evaluated the quality, design, workmanship and originality of her work.
She said she’s sold at least 30 paintings at the Redmond Saturday Market and plans to attend every time the weather cooperates. “I sell a lot of prints, so I’m always checking the weather — paper products get wet,” she explained.
Johnson’s favorite oil painting subjects are European and domestic cafe scenes, Japanese Koi and Tuscan landscapes. She sketches scenes from observation or multiple photographs taken on locations.
“I strive to utilize the highest quality of materials available, from brushes to paint to boards,” she added. “I hope viewers enjoy my work as much as I did creating it. Through art, I plan to bless and move viewers.”
Johnson’s painting called “Home of the Brave” clearly moved members of the New York City Fire Department. She received a commendation from the department after it was featured in a 9/11 commemorative book project called “Messages of Hope, Peace and Love.” A print of the painting was also displayed at the Bellevue Art Museum in September 2002.
Johnson’s also won Best in Show and First Place awards in juried art shows in Woodinville and Duvall, participated in Eastside Association of Fine Art shows at Trilogy at Redmond Ridge, has been featured at a gallery in Port Townsend and has donated art to auctions for the Ronald McDonald House, Make-A Wish-Foundation and other charities.
With all the open-air markets around Seattle and the Eastside, why does Johnson travel all the way from Kent to be a regular vendor at the Redmond Saturday Market?
“I think it’s the best Saturday market in the region,” she replied. “I’ve gotten to know the other vendors there. They’re very supportive. It’s a great way to prepare myself for other art shows and really a fun place.”
Johnson hopes to someday own an art gallery. For more information, visit www.stephaniekjohnson.com.
The Eastside’s oldest open-air market, the Redmond Saturday Market will run from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. every Saturday from May 2-Oct. 31. For details, visit www.redmondsaturdaymarket.org.
