Sara Johnson
Performing Artist
“I empathize with people because I understand the struggles that they might be experiencing. Being visually impaired gives me a different perspective on the world and I use that perspective to try to improve people’s lives and the world around me.”
photo by James Loving
What organizations and programs are you involved with in the Richmond community?
“I am a student at SPARC – the School of the Performing Arts in the Richmond Community. I perform in the Live Art program and am also learning about the technical side of theater. I am an athlete with Sportable. I have tried many sports at Sportable – cycling is my favorite. I am also an athlete with Miracle League and I participate with Jacob’s Chance.“
Are you employed or in school? If yes, where?
“I am a student at Glen Allen High School.”
How are you capable – what things do you do best?
“I am an advocate for myself and others. I empathize with people because I understand the struggles that they might be experiencing. Being visually impaired gives me a different perspective on the world and I use that perspective to try to improve people’s lives and the world around me. “
“I am adaptable – the world is not made for people with disabilities so I have to learn to adapt to my surroundings. People assume that because I am visually impaired I should wear glasses but glasses don’t improve my vision so I adapt better without them.“
“I am funny – having a good sense of humor gets me the tough times.”
What do you want people to know about you?
“I am an artist who likes to make people smile. I may have a disability but I am still a person just like everyone else and I have the same wants and needs. I want to make my own mark in the world. And as a silly fact about me - I am a huge Disney fan! “
If you could plan the perfect day, where would you go?
“I would go to Cocoa Beach, Florida and check out the local shops including Ron Jon Surf Shop. After shopping, I would go to Port Canaveral and eat at one of the restaurants on the water where I could sit on the patio and watch all of the cruise ships leave on their journeys. After dinner, I would get some ice cream and go for a night swim in the pool.”
What do you like best about living in the Richmond area?
“I like the diverse art community and all of the public displays of art. Richmond is a rich art community with so many different museums as well as places like VCU Art School and SPARC where I can learn more about the arts.”
What goals do you have for the future?
“My goals for the future are to become a digital artist or a graphic designer and spread positive messages through my art.”