Portrait of Aja Danille Johnson

[Portrait of Aja Danielle Johnson, by John Paul Thornton]


As I continue to paint portraits of America's missing children, I was asked to paint a portrait of Aja Danielle Johnson. She was born January 5th, 2003, reported as missing January 2010.

After I began her painting, she was found deceased.

I could not bear to put her painting aside. Finishing it was one of the most emotional experiences I have had. My heart goes out to her family, and to all of us.

The message of Compassion

The message in "Art and Courage: Stories to Inspire the Artist-Warrior Within"
became more powerful to me this year as I have begun speaking to both intimate and large audiences. People from all over the world are telling me that it is empowering them to advance through these amazing times of transition. I am grateful to all of you who have written to me and am looking forward to having everyone experience the book for themselves. It is available through Atlas Books and on Amazon.com