Reviewed by: Patience Itson
Why artist Johnetta Dexter chose downtown living in Birmingham
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Last year, artist Johnetta Dexter moved from her hometown in Arkansas to a live/work apartment in downtown Birmingham.
Bham Now met with Johnetta to learn what drew her to The Magic City and what she loves most about city living.
Meet Johnetta Dexter
Johnetta Dexter—known in the artist community as Johnetta—is a lifelong artist from Bentonville, Arkansas.
“As a young child, my parents were both artistic and encouraged my creative curiosities.
A local store had a small section of art supplies, and I would sprint there as soon as I got inside. After making my selection, I would carry it throughout the store until mom and dad were finished shopping.
Art has always been a part of me.”
Johnetta Dexter, Artist
After her children were grown, Johnetta pursued her love of art full-time. Northwest Arkansas was undergoing a housing boom at the time, and new homeowners were having trouble finding art.
For Johnetta, it was the perfect opportunity to leap headfirst into her passion.
“Traveling overseas, I needed to find a frame manufacturer that could build high quality frames in all sizes from 5” x 7“ to 70” x 70”.
After years of living and breathing everything oil painting-related, I learned a great deal about sales, framing, stretching, restoration and repair as well as packaging and shipping.
At this point I have stretched—literally—thousands of oil paintings that live throughout the world.”
Johnetta Dexter, Artist
Fast forward to the present day and Johnetta is an established artist with a loyal fanbase around the globe.
In her work, Johnetta draws inspiration from her travels and from the people she’s met along the way.
“For me art is everything. It is my sanity, a journal entry, a chapter of a terrific story. Sometimes I will write part of that story on the back of a painting.”
Johnetta Dexter, Artist
Making the move to The Magic City
Last year, Johnetta’s husband Brad landed an exciting job opportunity in Birmingham. Although Johnetta wasn’t sure about moving, she and Brad made a deal: if she came with him to Alabama, she could choose their home.
After seeing several apartments throughout the city, Johnetta toured one of the live/work spaces at Theatre Lofts—a new collection of luxury lofts in the heart of Birmingham’s theatre district.
“The instant I saw this live/work space, my brain shut out all other possibilites—I knew this was where I wanted to live.”
Johnetta Dexter, Artist
Johnetta’s new home is one of Theatre Lofts’ four unique live/work units.
With residential space in the rear and flexible workspace in the front, these units are ideal for boutique retailers and artists like Johnetta.
“We don’t have a lawn to mow or a big house to keep clean, and we don’t even have to drive a car—we can walk to so many different restaurants nearby.
This loft and its location are perfect for everything we need.”
Johnetta Dexter, Artist
In addition to these original live/work spaces, Theatre Lofts features a variety of one and two-bedroom loft apartments—all outfitted with modern furnishings and appliances.
Interested in learning more about these loft apartments? Contact the Theatre Lofts’ team and schedule a tour.
Why Johnetta loves living in downtown Birmingham
Moving from a small town to the heart of downtown Birmingham could be a difficult transition for some—but not Johnetta. She has taken full advantage of the opportunities living downtown offers.
“When I found out that Forstall Art Center was just a couple blocks away, I thought, ‘I’m in big trouble!'”
Johnetta Dexter, Artist
What’s Johnetta’s absolute favorite part of living downtown? The historic Alabama Theatre on Third Ave North.
“At night, I love to sit and watch the lights of the Alabama Theatre.
The flickering through the gallery windows is magical. It feels like I’m living in a dream.”
Johnetta Dexter, Artist
And, as a people person, Johnetta loves being able to meet new friends each and every day.
“Sometimes I see people standing outside looking in the gallery windows not knowing that I can hear them.
It fills my heart with joy to hear such wonderful compliments.
I love my life. I love my space. I love my routine.”
Johnetta Dexter, Artist
Learn more about live/work spaces at Theatre Lofts
- Theatre Lofts: 205.725.5671 | Website | Facebook | Instagram
- Address: 1816 3rd Ave N, Birmingham, AL 35203
Contact Theatre Lofts’ team with any questions and schedule a tour to learn more.
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