About Johnny Dreamawake
I have been collaborating and working alongside creatives in the Atlantic City area for over 10 years but have been creating since I was around 5 or 6.
I am drawn to public art because it has the potential to create a lasting impact on the community. Public art can be a powerful community engagement tool and foster a sense of pride and ownership in public spaces. As an artist, the opportunity to create work that is accessible to all members of the public and has the potential to promote positive change is incredibly inspiring.
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My creative practice is spontaneous, fueled by a desire to express myself and capture the energy of the world around me. My vision is to create art that speaks to the struggles and experiences of marginalized communities, challenging societal norms and pushing boundaries. My goals are to continue evolving as an artist, experimenting with new forms and techniques. My work is heavily influenced by my experiences growing up as a child in New York City. I draw inspiration from the city's vibrant street art scene, as well as the work of artists like Cy Twombly, Keith Haring, and Basquiat.
​​I first gained recognition in the early 2000s for my urban-inspired paintings and clothing, which explored themes of identity, hip-hop, and consumer culture. Throughout my career, I will continue to challenge conventions and push boundaries, collaborating and producing works that will speak to the social and political issues of my time. One transformative moment in my career came when I rented my first creative art space in 2015 at the Noyes Arts Garage in Atlantic City. Having the ability to create in a space alongside other artists allowed me to find my unique vision and also an opportunity to show my work to a broader audience.
