Spraying The "Truth" - Story of A Street Artist

This is the story of a boy, and the street artist who inspires him.

Here in Austin, Texas, there is a prolific street artist whose paintings appear on concrete walls all across the city: pink monsters, gigantic sneakers, cowboy mustaches, and historical figures we know and love, e.g. Michael Jordan with an umbrella and Jesus with a boombox. He is quick as a whip in wit, and snappy, with a blend of humor and heart. This popular artist is Mike Johnston, who goes by the moniker, "Truth."

Our kids have had the pleasure of knowing this artist, seeing him transition from an elementary art teacher with experimental graffiti blasts to a full-time artist with sky-high murals. Today, he's a self-made success story and a legend in the local art scene. One day, he agreed to an in-person interview led by our 5-year-old, Daniel, who represented the @wildfamily team as our ace reporter.

Daniel Lindsay with "Uncle Mike"

During our interview, we learned about Mr. Johnston's 12-year background as an elementary art teacher. Truth holds a master's degree! We also learned about the hottest places to find spray paint in Austin: Austin ReBlend (free!) and Jerry's Artarama (best options!).

Truth told us about teaming up with fellow painter, Lucas Aoki, and the illustrious SprATX collective of street artists, muralists, and graffiti fanatics, blowing up a screen near you on Instagram. ;) Truth informed us about the placement of his artwork in high places, and demonstrated the proper use of spray paint. Check it out, and learn a trick or two.

Additional murals, street art, and fine artworks are archived on his website: www.mikejohnstonartist.com. Truth proves it’s possible to earn a living as an artist in Austin and possibly anywhere else. He shows that passion is the driving force that leads to success.

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