Heith Johnson, 52, is a familiar face at the Sallisaw Farmers Market, where his vibrant artwork captures the attention of passersby.
A lifelong resident of Sequoyah County, Johnson grew up in Muldrow and has called the area home his entire life. For him, the peaceful environment and natural beauty of Oklahoma have always been sources of inspiration. “Oklahoma is great. It’s quiet and beautiful,” Johnson says with a warm smile.
Johnson’s passion for art began long before he ever picked up a pencil. As a child, he was fascinated by comic book superheroes, spending hours admiring the illustrations in the pages of his favorite comics. Superman, Batman, Spiderman and The Hulk were among his childhood heroes, and they remain some of his favorites to this day.
He recalls that his love for drawing started when he was just a young boy, and he credits a close family member for encouraging that early spark.
“It was my aunt Delores who inspired me to start sketching,” Johnson says.
While drawing has been a constant part of his life, painting is a more recent endeavor. About three years ago, with the encouragement of his wife Linda, Johnson decided to pick up a paintbrush.
“She had seen how much I love art and told me I should try painting,” he says. “So I gave it a shot and continued to paint.”
Since then, painting has become a central part of his creative expression, adding a new dimension to the sketches he once only kept in notebooks.
Now a regular presence at the farmers market, Johnson proudly displays his colorful paintings and sketches on Wednesdays and Fridays. Many of his paintings reflect a blend of nature, nostalgia and imagination. Shoppers and art enthusiasts often stop by his booth, not only to admire his work but also to hear the stories behind each piece. His art, much like his personality, is warm, approachable and full of heart.
Beyond selling his artwork, Johnson hopes to inspire others to pursue their own creative paths. He believes that art is about more than technique, it’s about passion, persistence and joy.
“You have to enjoy it,” he says. “That’s the most important part. Keep creating, no matter what.”
As he continues to grow as an artist, Johnson remains grateful for the support of his family and community. With his sketchbook in hand and his heart full of stories, he looks forward to sharing his love of art for years to come.
In a world that often moves too fast, Johnson is a reminder of the beauty in slowing down, staying true to your roots and following the creative spark wherever it may lead.
