Who is Timothy Johnston?
I’m Timothy Johnston, a Sydney-born artist and one of four children. I spent my childhood in the Hunter Valley, where, from the age of seven to fourteen, I had the privilege of learning from renowned Australian artist Max Watters AM.
My love for art and music began at a young age – I was always either painting or singing. While I’m now a full-time artist, I also made it to the top 12 of Australian Idol in 2009 and continue to work on creative music projects alongside my visual art. For the past five years, I’ve been dedicated to my craft as a fine artist, showcasing my work in my self-titled gallery.
What would you do differently from what you do now?
I truly love what I’m doing, but I would like to dedicate more time to my music. One of my long-held dreams is to create a soul/crooner album while in LA, and I’m eager to make that a reality.
Who inspires you and why?
Monet inspires me with his iconic paintings of his garden. His masterful use of colour and painterly Impressionism, capturing form and movement, reflects the beauty found in nature – a quality I deeply admire. In a similar way, I see the ocean as my garden and muse, especially the Great Barrier Reef, which I grew up next to as a teenager in North Queensland. It continues to provide me with endless inspiration. That’s why I’m truly proud of my headwear collection with ooGee Australia, as proceeds actively support Taronga Zoo’s vital Reef Recovery work – helping to protect and preserve this natural wonder.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
Since the beginning of my career, I’ve been driven by a desire to create beauty and inspiration through my work while making a positive impact on nature – and encouraging other creatives to do the same. In 2019, while in Malibu, I founded CollaborOCEANS – a movement dedicated to creatives collaborating for ocean conservation.
In 2021, my business partner helped bring my work to a global stage by projecting it onto the sails of the Sydney Opera House in celebration of World Ocean Day. The event was supported by Exhibition Patron Valerie Taylor AM – renowned conservationist, shark expert, underwater documentary maker, author, and artist – alongside Youth Patron Sam Fricker, an Olympic diver and well-known content creator, as well as six other talented artists.
I also founded the Youth Ocean Carnival, an event supporting my friend and Olympian Sam Fricker’s vision to engage young people as recognised, active leaders in ocean conservation. Held at Luna Park in 2024 for World Ocean Day, the event was an incredible experience, and I was especially proud to have ooGee sponsor the work of CollaborOCEANS. Seeing so many young people inspired to take action for the ocean was truly rewarding.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
I’m definitely drawn to places with warm weather! I’d have to pick Rome and Hawaii as two of my favourite destinations. Rome inspires me with its rich art, culture, and incredible food – there’s something fascinating to discover around every corner.
Hawaii, on the other hand, is one of the most relaxing and breathtaking places I’ve ever been. The natural beauty and unbelievable wildlife make it feel like paradise, and I instantly unwind the moment I step off the plane. One of my favourite spots is Turtle Cove – it’s a truly special place.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
When friends come to town, I love taking them to the Bathers’ Pavilion in Mosman on Balmoral Beach – it’s my local spot. The bay is beautiful, and the restaurant offers a fantastic setting for breakfast, lunch, or dinner with stunning views right on the water overlooking North Head.
I also recommend a visit to Taronga Zoo, which is just nearby. It not only offers an incredible experience with wildlife but also boasts one of the best views of Sydney Harbour – it always leaves a lasting impression on visitors.
What are you currently reading?
I’m currently reading The Happiest Man on Earth by Eddie Jaku. It was a gift I received for Christmas, and while I’m a slow reader, I take it in bit by bit. One of the quotes that really stood out to me is: “With a simple act of kindness, you can save another person from despair, and that might just save their life. And this is the greatest miracle of all.” It’s such a powerful reminder of the impact small gestures can have.
What are you currently listening to?
I’m currently listening to different pieces by Vivaldi and various Miles Davis jazz tracks, especially when I’m painting. The blend of classical and jazz really helps set the mood and keeps me focused when painting.
Happiness is?
Happiness is bringing joy to those around you, doing what you love, and being with the people you love. It’s those simple moments of connection and fulfillment that truly make life meaningful.
What does the future hold for you?
The future holds more travel between LA and Sydney as I continue to focus on expanding my art career, particularly in the USA. I’ve built a strong clientele in Sydney, and over the past couple of years, I’ve been planning an expansion into both art and music in the US.
Alongside this, my collaboration with ooGee Australia continues to be a key part of my journey, helping to amplify my work and connect with even more creative opportunities. It’s an exciting next step, and I’m eager to see where it all takes me.
Timothy has collaborated with ooGee Australia to develop a new headwear range featuring his art series, embracing the theme: From desert to reef, under one sun. For more information, visit: www.oogee.com.au for details.
Image: Timothy Johnston (supplied)