In early 2023, Michelle Johnson, accompanied by her husband Josh and their two children, made the significant decision to uproot their lives in Texas and start afresh in Vian. They were drawn to a property south of I-40, nestled amidst the peacefulness of the area.
For Michelle, a talented artist with a deep appreciation for nature, the move to Vian opened up a world of inspiration.
“The diverse landscapes of Vian and its surrounding areas provide an endless canvas for my creativity,” she explains. “The vibrant colors and textures of nature fuel my artistic expression in ways I had never imagined.”
Settling into their new home, Michelle and Josh embarked on an ambitious remodeling project, transforming their circa 1914 house into a cozy haven for their family.
“The process of remodeling our home has been a labor of love,” Michelle shares. “It’s been a wonderful opportunity for Josh and me to work together, and create a space that truly reflects our values and brings new life into this old house.”
However, Michelle’s journey to Vian took an unexpected turn. In late 2021, she received a devastating diagnosis of Stage 4 breast cancer. Faced with an uncertain future, Michelle resolved to confront the disease with courage and determination.
“The news of my diagnosis was a gutwrenching blow, but I was determined not to let fear overtake me,” she recalls.
With the support of her family and the expertise of medical professionals, Michelle sought treatment at the Cancer Treatment Centers of America hospital in Phoenix.
“The treatment process was really long and emotional, but I remained hopeful and resilient throughout,” she reflects. She credits her family and deep faith as significant factors that kept her hopeful.
After seven months of intensive therapy, including a double mastectomy and chemotherapy, Michelle emerged cancer-free, leaving her with a renewed sense of gratitude and purpose.
After overcoming cancer, Michelle and Josh decided not to return to their previous lives in Texas, where they each worked 40 hours or more a week, and participated in the stressful corporate rat race. Together, the family made the decision to move to Oklahoma, where Josh is originally from, and settled on their home in Vian.
“I fell in love with the little town,” she says.
Michelle says that the move left her with lots of time to homeschool the couple’s two children and even more time to work on her passion: art.
“Art has always been my sanctuary, a place where I can express myself freely and find solace in the good times and in the bad,” she explains.
Her artwork, characterized by vibrant nature scenes and intricate life-like sculptures, serves as representations of experiences she has had throughout her life, particularly post-cancer, which she now refers to as her “second life.”
“Through my art, I hope to inspire others to find strength and courage in the face of adversity,” she says. Michelle was inspired by last November’s Red Autumn Arts Festival in Sallisaw. Though she is not comfortable selling her art just yet, she hopes to someday share her creativity at Farmers Markets or perhaps teach a class at the library.
Looking ahead, Michelle is grateful for the opportunity to share her art with the world and continue her journey.
“Life is a gift, and I’m determined to embrace each moment with gratitude,” she affirms. “I’m excited to see where this journey takes me next and the impact my art can have on others.”
