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Architecture Gave Him Inspiration To Become Artist

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By SARAH ROTHWELL The Tampa Tribune

The Tampa Tribune

Published: June 14, 2008

NEW TAMPA - Throughout most of his life, Lloyd Johnson was more interested in mathematics and science than art.

He studied computer science in college and had a successful career. In 2006, he retired from Verizon Data Services in Tampa. With more free time, Johnson decided to explore the world of art and design. He began creating multimedia artworks inspired by architecture and geometric shapes.

Johnson, 63, of Wesley Chapel, recently was selected as the June artist of the month by the North Tampa Arts League. His works will be on display through June 30 at New Tampa Regional Library.

Q. Were you interested in art as a child?

A. I always appreciated design, but I wasn't really into art. I had an experience in grade school that I think sparked my appreciation for architecture. There was a model in our school library of a house. I used to like to look at it. I thought it was really interesting. I also really liked the design of the library. Years later, I found out that Frank Lloyd Wright had designed our library and the house model.

Q. How would you describe your art?

A. I'm inspired by midcentury art deco. My works are geometric. They are sculptures and mixed media. Because of my background in computers and engineering, I have always been able to create three-dimensional images. I used wood, glass tiles and Plexiglas.

Q. Describe your artistic process.

A. It isn't that exciting; it's a tedious process. I come up with the concept, then I break down the concept to create a piece of art. I can spend 40 hours on one piece. For a lot of my work, I need to rent out machines. So I have to factor in when the machines are available.

Q. Does most of your work revolve around a particular theme?

A. Not really. My interest is in shapes and patterns. I focus on the visual element.

Q. When did you join the North Tampa Arts League?

A. Around the time I retired. Belonging to the league helps me a lot. It's opened me up to a new world. There are so many people involved with so many different backgrounds and talents. I am amazed when I look at the paintings and the drawings. I have no idea how to create a painting. The quality of people and the talent in the league just blows me away.

Q. Do you have any other hobbies?

A. Sports cars are a passion of mine. I raced Corvettes for 15 years. I'm still involved with the racing group. I really enjoy it and the people. My wife even learned to race.

Q. Does your wife support you in the arts as well?

A. Yes, she's very supportive. I couldn't do it without her support. She even helps me go and hang my works up for shows.

Q. How much do your pieces cost?

A. They are usually between $300 and $1,500. I am working on producing more economical pieces. With the economy right now, a lot of people don't have the money to spend on original art. I want to make things that are affordable. I'm not in the art world to make a profit; I'm in it because I love it.

THE EXHIBIT

WHAT: Artwork by Lloyd Johnson
WHEN: From 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 12:30 to 5 p.m. Sunday, through June 30

WHERE: New Tampa Regional Library, 10001 Cross Creek Blvd.

INFORMATION: Call (813) 973-0329 or visit www.deco

designs.biz.

Sarah Rothwell can be reached at srothwell@tampatrib.com or (813) 865-4845.

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