Artist on Staff: Victor Johnson
Hi, I'm Victor Johnson, and I work in the CMA communications department, where I wear a couple of hats, including multimedia production. At my core, I see myself as a visual storyteller and a keeper of memories and family history, capturing candid moments through documentary-style photography. But my photographic curiosity extends far beyond this central passion — I find immense joy in exploring the intimacy of portraiture and the artistry of fellow creators alongside the raw honesty of street and macro work. I especially love the boundless creativity that toy photography with Funko figures and other characters sparks in me. There's a unique kind of magic in bringing these inanimate objects to life and crafting narratives through their interactions, allowing me to tap into a different, often playful and imaginative form of storytelling.
I draw immense inspiration from the artistry of other photographers and creators across various disciplines: Gordon Parks, Jamel Shabazz, Andre D. Wagner, Gina Danza, Vuhlandes, Jarvis Lawson, Robert Randolph, Frank D. Young, Tatsuya Tanaka, Jason Michael, Jax Navarro, and Isaiah Takahashi, to name a few. Their unique perspectives and masterful techniques constantly push me to evolve and perceive the world through new lenses. Ultimately, the desire to document our society — the fleeting moments, diverse experiences, and stories that shape our collective human experience — is a significant driving force behind my work.
By embracing risks and seizing opportunities, what began as a beloved hobby has gradually transformed into a fulfilling career in arts and media production. This journey has taught me that creative passions can enrich professional life in unexpected ways. Whether I’m capturing real-world moments, crafting whimsical scenes, or drawing inspiration from other perspectives, my aim remains consistent: to tell engaging visual stories. I look forward to continuing this creative exploration and seeing where my lens leads next.