Meet Johnny Kallio

We were lucky to catch up with Johnny Kallio recently and have shared our conversation below.

Johnny, appreciate you making time for us and sharing your wisdom with the community. So many of us go through similar pain points throughout our journeys and so hearing about how others overcame obstacles can be helpful. One of those struggles is keeping creativity alive despite all the stresses, challenges and problems we might be dealing with. How do you keep your creativity alive?

My mind doesn’t stop. Everything I see and hear, I automatically start remixing. I’m inspired to create something new, alter what I’ve seen or heard, or possibly drive the people around me crazy with my artistic enthusiasm, especially my wife. Creative block is not something I normally experience, but often I have to work on many pictures at once to avoid burnout. I believe keeping your eyes and ears open to all experiences can lead to your next masterpiece. You never know where your inspiration may come from. Just keep an open mind and spirit, and don’t force it.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?

My earliest memories of drawing start at age 3, I remember being amazed that I could draw things I loved, and they would come to life on paper. At a very young age, ages 5-11,I was very driven to be as good as I could be. I’ve always admired other artists, but even then I wanted to carve out my own path.

I really started developing my own style in my 20’s. Again, I was very driven, and it was then that I came into my own. Piecing thoughts, ideas, and uncertainty together with an enthusiasm to create something new. The basis of my art has always been rooted in the idea of Frankenstein and the Frankenstein Monster. I also never liked the idea of Halloween being one month a year, and with my art I could have it all year round.

From ages 30-50, I stopped drawing altogether. With life getting in the way, I lost the passion I once had. I’m a musician and I love to write, so my creativity has always had outlets.

On December 13th, 2020, with my wife’s support, I declared that my monster art was back, and I’ve been full speed ahead ever since. Going on 5 years, I have made leaps and bounds with the quality and quantity of my work. My dream never died, and I’m thankful that it found its way back into my heart. In that time, I feel that my foundation is pretty solid, and I’m looking forward to growing on the business end.

You can find me on Instagram @FWACKOS9. At this time, my art can be purchased through TeePublic with the link on my Instagram page.

Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?

The three most impactful pieces of wisdom I gained in my journey would be
1. Be patient, but be persistent.
2. Creativity cannot be forced.
3. Be open to collaborate with the aether.

The best advice I could give to someone starting out is to put these three ideals in your back pocket. Along your journey there will be moments when these words will resonate, and a deeper understanding will serve your work.

To close, maybe we can chat about your parents and what they did that was particularly impactful for you?

The most impactful thing my parents did for me was to give me the freedom to be me. They celebrated my individuality, and gave me space to express myself, and to grow as a person. I have a strong respect for freedom, and the freedom of all people.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @FWACKOS9