RESPECT. Interview: Manasseh Johnson Tells Us About His Artistic Journey & What Inspires Him To Keep Doing Art

Image Credit (including featured image): Manasseh Art

Since the young age of three Manasseh Johnson has had a pencil in his hand. He was born and raised in New Jersey but currently resides and works out of his home studio in San Antonio, Texas. He works in all mediums, but it wasn’t until several years ago that he started using colored pencils and mastered the medium. Most of his current work is mixed media which includes colored pencil. Manasseh has been published in “Colored Pencil Magazine”and “The Source”. He’s been commissioned by people from all across the globe including celebrities such as Kevin Hart and Lena Waithe. His goal as an artist is to create art that embraces the black culture and inspire up incoming artists.

We got a chance to catch up with Manasseh and talk about his art influences growing up, where he see’s himself in five years and much more.

Get into the interview below.

Image Credit: Manasseh Art

Image Credit: Manasseh Art

RESPECT.: Where are you from?

My name is Manasseh Johnson Sr. and I’m from New Jersey, born and raised but currently residing in San Antonio.

When Did You Start Doing Painting?

Ive been creating art since the age 3. Actually most of my pieces are done in colored pencil mixed with airbrush but I do paint as well.

What Inspired You To Do Art?

Art is a part of who I am. I feel the need and always have had the desire to create.

Image Credit: Manasseh Art

Any artist growing up that influenced you to start painting?

One of my first influences in art growing up was seeing the art on “Good Times”. At the time I thought J.J. was painting them, but of course I quickly learned they were done by Ernie Barnes. But Ive had many influences including, Kadir Nelson, Thomas Blackshear, and WAK, just to name a few.

Image Credit: Manasseh Art

Image Credit: Manasseh Art

What Is Your creative mindset before painting?

I usually brainstorm for a couple days before I even sketch or put anything down on paper and just try to think outside the box and create something that has some kind of wow factor.

How many paintings do you own?

Ive lost count.

What does Art Mean to you?

Art is everything to me. Like I said before, its a part of who I am. Its an outlet and a comfort zone that’s like no other feeling.

Image Credit: Manasseh Art

Image Credit: Manasseh Art

Where do you see yourself in Art 5 Years from now?

In 5 years, I hope to be a global name and have several galleries, maybe a clothing line.

Image Credit: Manasseh Art

Have any celebrities or public figures reached out to you about your paintings?

Yes. Ive done a few commissions for Lena Waithe and recently Kevin Hart. Ive also had celebrities such as Affion Crockett, Lance Gross, NFL player Haha Clinton_Dix. Producers, film directors and many more have reached out to me.

Image Credit: Manasseh Art

Which paintings is your favorite?

My favorite piece would be my most recent, Boyz ‘N’ the hood (Hip-hop legends).

How did the concept of your ‘Boyz N the Hood’ painting with Jay Z, Nas, 2pac & Biggie come about?

The concept came about because I had previously done a Boyz ‘N’ the hood piece and it was a big a hit with the people so I decided to revisit it but replace them with hip-hop icons. Once I came up with putting Biggie as doughboy, it was pretty easy to fill in the rest.

Last words to end this interview.

I want to thank you for the opportunity to be interviewed. Its been a pleasure. Anyone who wants to reach me or follow my work can find me on

instagram @Manasseh_art

Www.Manassehart.com