Kris Johnson specializes in hand dyed silk, abstract designs, hand wovens & fiber art.

Graduating with an art degree from San Jose State, I began my journey toward becoming a professional artist as a weaver. I continue to weave a limited number of both decorative and wearable woven items. My focus transitioned from weaving to working with silk evolved as I learned the fascinating process of hand dying.

In 1997, I was commissioned to weave a panel using hand dyed silk for a small company. This was the groundwork for these abstracts which I began showing in earnest in 2003. The introduction in 2005 of my silk on canvas allows the use of a wider range of weights and weaves as well the ability to create larger scale work. 2020 I introduced a limited number of panels designed to hang without the confines of a frame In addition to hand dying the materials, using individual strips of silk as well as floating the edges enhances the dimensional quality of my work.

The layering of color creates a painterly quality. I am often asked if I design with a symbol or shape in mind. The answer is no. I create purely from color. Once I am pleased with the color harmony of the silk I have chose for a particular piece, I work on the layout over a period of days, looking at the piece from all angles and different lighting. Often the artwork is designed to hang in either orientation.

I am captivated by fiber as my means of artistic expression, especially silk. Being a tactile person is the driving force to my working in this medium. I love playing with color and utilizing the wonderful palette available only through hand dying to create art.

I welcome visitors to my studio. Feel free to set up an appointment .