press
As seen on boldjourney.com:
November 5, 2024
We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Ciara Johnson.
We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Ciara below.
Ciara, appreciate you making time for us and sharing your wisdom with the community. So many of us go through similar pain points throughout our journeys and so hearing about how others overcame obstacles can be helpful. One of those struggles is keeping creativity alive despite all the stresses, challenges and problems we might be dealing with. How do you keep your creativity alive?
In a self accounted way, I keep my creativity alive by letting my surroundings, experiences, and emotions fuel my work. Emotions are a huge part of my process—it’s like alchemy. Whatever I’m feeling—joy, frustration, calm—it transmutes itself into something visible and tangible through my art. This emotional connection gives my work deeper meaning and keeps it authentic and alive.
A key part of my process is also knowing when to take a step back. Giving myself space to rest, helps me recharge and gain fresh perspectives. Those moments of pause allow my creativity to reset, so when I return, I feel more grounded and inspired. I believe creativity thrives when it’s given room to breathe and grow, both through reflection and connection with others.
In a collaborative sense, keeping my creativity alive comes from a meaningful ritual—spending time on the balcony with my boyfriend and creative partner, Patrick “Embryo” Tapu. Almost every evening, we sit together, talk about our day, share ideas, laugh, and naturally, we start coming up with scenarios, jokes, and creative ideas. And sometimes we just sit in silence. Our moments are full of love, affection, and encouragement, which really fuels my creativity.
We’ve had so many great ideas during these conversations that I’m planning to get an old-school tape recorder to capture them all. It’s like our own little roundtable where we blend our creative minds. We inspire each other, and it’s a gift to have that kind of mutual creative support.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
I’m Ciara, the creator of Rulerless. As an artist based in Los Angeles, my work is deeply rooted in transformation—both emotional and creative. Over time, creating freehand geometric shapes without a ruler has come to symbolize much more than just an artistic technique; it’s a philosophy of life. It reflects the idea of living without strict boundaries, trusting an internal compass, and allowing the natural flow of life to guide you in ways that only you can understand. This mindset informs both my art and how I navigate the world. I have now come to a point in my life where I can reflect and realize, long before the conception of my art, I have always been Rulerless because of my unusual upbringing.
Being “Rulerless” is about embracing the unknown, trusting in the process, and remaining true to oneself despite external pressures.
For me, art is a form of alchemy. I take complex emotions and experiences—whether it’s joy, frustration, or calm—and transmute them into something meaningful and tangible. This act of creation helps me process life’s complexities and gives my work a deeper, authentic connection. I believe creativity is most alive when it’s rooted in emotion and growth, which is why I allow my work to evolve naturally, without forcing it into a specific mold.
Beyond the art itself, what drives me is the desire to create something lasting and meaningful. I want Rulerless to stand for more than just products—it’s about a lifestyle that reflects thoughtfulness, craftsmanship, and moral values that make sense to the self. I’m currently focused on expanding the brand in a way that stays true to this vision. While I began with original artworks, I’m now working on offering a range of products, from apparel and textile designs to home goods, all created with the same attention to quality and integrity.
I’m finalizing important foundational factors, ready to carefully curate and build a strong team and preparing to move toward small-batch releases that prioritize ethical production and craftsmanship, reflecting my belief that creating meaningful work isn’t about mass production but about curating something special and lasting. Rulerless is growing into a lifestyle brand, and I’m excited about its potential to inspire others not only through art but through the way we live and connect with the world around us
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Looking back, the three qualities that stand out as being most impactful would be resilience, adaptability and trust in my intuition.
Art, especially in Branding, is a lot like life and it isn’t a straight path. There are moments of frustration, setbacks, and unexpected challenges. In my case, the journey included brain surgery and a complete reevaluation of my direction. But resilience allowed me to return to my art with even more intention and purpose. My advice for anyone early in their journey is to embrace the obstacles as opportunities to grow. Learn how to bounce back stronger, and don’t let challenges take away your passion. Every detour teaches you something valuable, even if it doesn’t feel that way in the moment.
My journey took many twists, from a career in the coffee industry to becoming a mother, to my illness, to fully returning to my art. Being able to adapt to new circumstances and ideas was critical. I’ve learned that creativity thrives when you’re willing to shift your approach, experiment with new techniques, or pivot your direction. For those starting out, I’d say: Don’t box yourself into one identity or way of working. Stay open to learning, exploring, and changing your path. Adaptability will keep you fresh and open to the possibilities you can’t yet see. You have to drop the fear and trust.
A major part of my art is working freehand—trusting my internal compass to guide the creation of geometric patterns without rulers or strict boundaries as I let myself disappear in the actual act. This philosophy is not just a creative approach, but a life one. Trusting yourself, your instincts, and your unique vision is key. The need for external opinions and direction will eventually kill your individuality and creativity. For anyone beginning their journey, I’d advise you to tune in to that quiet inner voice. It knows more than you think. Cultivate self-trust and don’t be afraid to follow your gut, even when it feels risky or uncertain. That’s often where the magic happens.
To develop these qualities, give yourself room to fail, reflect, and grow. Challenge yourself, find someone that can be a soundboard you can trust, and don’t shy away from discomfort. Over time, these qualities will not only guide your creative work but help shape the direction of your journey in ways you couldn’t have predicted.
Looking back over the past 12 months or so, what do you think has been your biggest area of improvement or growth?
The past 12 months have been transformative for me. After spending the last four years in an incubating period, nurturing my self-care and developing Rulerless in the background while the world seemed increasingly chaotic, I’ve emerged from that “seed-like” phase. I focused heavily on building a strong foundation for myself and my brand, ensuring that I stayed aligned with my vision while the world and my friends changed shape and shifted around me. That period of introspection and growth allowed me to deepen my connection with my self. I was very cautious about my own steps forward as to not participate in anything that didn’t feel right for me or my creativity and that ensured I was building something meaningful.
This year has been about stepping out into the world again. With my beloved, I’ve started meeting new people, making connections, and surrounding myself with like-minded individuals who share my passion and creative energy. It’s been incredibly fun and refreshing, and I’m seeing the seeds I planted over the last few years begin to blossom in real, tangible ways. Being around this new network of inspiring people with my man has fueled my creativity and contributed to positive personal and professional growth. I’m now able to see myself and Rulerless evolve and take shape in ways I had only envisioned during those quieter years of incubation.
In short, my biggest area of growth has been moving from that period of self-reflection and nurturing into a phase of active connection and expansion. I’m no longer just planning—I’m experiencing growth as it happens, and it’s been a rewarding shift.
As seen on canvasrebel.com :
October 24, 2024
We were lucky to catch up with Ciara Johnson recently and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, Ciara thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Do you wish you had waited to pursue your creative career or do you wish you had started sooner?
The backstory of myself and my art, which I call Rulerless, has many layers, but here’s the core of it.
From a young age, I enjoyed writing and exploring art, often painting and illustrating on my own. I would even experiment with portraiture alongside my grandfather, who was quite skilled, though I never considered myself an artist.
During my school years, I would draw geometric patterns on my homework and bedroom walls and in my twenties, while building a career in the coffee industry, I began creating canvases. Art, at the time, was just a hobby.
In 2010, I became a mother and left my career to focus on my son, but I continued drawing intricate geometric shapes. It was during a dinner party, when people asked how I could draw straight lines without a ruler, an in that instance, “Rulerless” was born.
In 2011, while at an airport, I experienced a medical emergency, which led to a diagnosis of a cavernous blood vessel malformation. This news was overwhelming, and I feared for my life. Working with UCLA Neurology, I explored options but kept much of it private from even my closest friends. The doctors recommended anxiety medication, but because I was already on other medications to manage the malformation, I turned to art as my meditation and therapy. It became my escape from fear and isolation as I underwent tests and, ultimately, brain surgery.
Fortunately, the surgery was a success. As I healed, I realized that art had carried me through my hardest times, and I became more passionate about it than ever. I returned to my career but continued painting nightly, producing dozens of canvases.
In 2016, I held my first art show in Venice Beach on Abbot Kinney. Since then, Rulerless has evolved, taking on new shapes and meaning. Looking back, I sometimes wonder if I should’ve focused on Rulerless earlier, but I believe everything happened as it should. My experiences, both good and bad, have brought me to where I am today.
For over two decades, I’ve developed my artistry, learning through trial and error, research, and an appreciation of art history and different techniques that I’ve utilized within my own creations. In the last four years, I’ve dedicated myself fully to it, But what makes Rulerless truly unique is the originality, intuition and aesthetic taste that I’ve tapped into from within—a gift I’m deeply grateful for.
Ciara, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
I’m an interdisciplinary artist, and right now, Rulerless is transitioning from a personal creative outlet to an evolving brand. My primary focus will always be on creating original artwork, but I’m also exploring ways for Rulerless to establish a strong presence in the industry.
When I create, each piece is an intimate journey. I never fully know where it will lead me. My process is about feeling, playing, and exploring—it’s like a conversation with the canvas, where I surrender to the moment, trust the creative process and let my intuition guide me.
I’m very particular about the materials I use, always prioritizing quality over quantity. I either self wrap my canvases or find highest quality canvases to use. And I mostly work with acrylics and watercolors, often incorporating texture compounds and charcoals. I’m not afraid to experiment with unconventional tools from my surroundings to bring my ideas to life.
At heart, I’m an analog artist in a digital world. However, as Rulerless expands beyond canvas into fabrics and design, I’m using tools like Illustrator and Procreate to bring my freehand patterns and color theories into the digital space. This helps me adapt to the constantly evolving digital world, while staying true to my artistic roots.
On the business side, I have a strategic mindset and a keen eye for patterns in business operations that many may overlook.
My past leadership roles have been instrumental in shaping the foundation and direction of Rulerless, and I’m proud of how I’m able to blend my artistic and business skills.
One thing I’m especially proud of is the future of curating a team that truly understands the full spectrum of what Rulerless represents. Each person will bring their own unique perspective while aligning with the core philosophy of being true to oneself. The year ahead will be a very exciting time for Rulerless as a brand.
For me, the process of merging my creative and business sides is like the ultimate brain game. This is particularly meaningful given my experience with brain surgery and the challenges that I still manage.
Every step feels like a personal triumph as I continue to grow both Rulerless and myself.
For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?
The most rewarding aspect of being an artist is the ability to completely lose myself in the act of creation. It’s not just about making art—it’s about entering a flow where I’m free to explore and evolve, creating a world that grows with me. This process is deeply meditative. When I emerge from that creative trance, I often surprise myself with what I’ve brought to life. It’s a constant reminder of the hidden potential within me, and every time I experience that, it feels like discovering something new about myself.
What makes it even more powerful is knowing that this process and the full spectrum meaning of Rulerless can resonate with others, offering a glimpse into that transformative world I create. That connection, where someone else can feel the energy and intention behind my work, is something I find incredibly rewarding.
Do you think there is something that non-creatives might struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can shed some light?
One aspect of my journey that I think non-creatives might struggle to understand is the depth of the emotional connection to the creative process. For many, art might seem like a straightforward activity—something you either can or cannot do. However, for me, creating is a deeply personal experience that serves as a form of therapy and self-discovery.
When I engage with a canvas, I enter a meditative state where I can explore my thoughts, feelings, and experiences. This is where I find solace and clarity. It’s not just about the final piece; it’s about the journey of creation itself—how it allows me to express things that words often can’t capture.
I believe that this transformative process can be valuable for everyone, not just those who consider themselves creative. Embracing the act of creation—whether it’s painting, writing, cooking, or even organizing—can serve as a powerful outlet for processing emotions and experiences.
Additionally, I want to emphasize that creativity is not about perfection or talent—it’s about exploration, curiosity, and the willingness to express oneself authentically. I’ve spent years learning and growing, often through trial and error, as I developed my skills and fine-tuned aesthetic taste and I’ve discovered that the journey itself holds just as much value as the outcome.
I truly believe that every movement in life is an opportunity to create something greater than oneself, whether it’s engaging in a conversation, making love, or enjoying a moment of silence. To me, it’s all art.
In sharing this, I hope to encourage others to find their own creative outlets, whatever they may be. It’s a way to connect with oneself and navigate the complexities of life. You never know what insights or healing can come from simply allowing yourself to create, regardless of the medium.
Us humans forget how limitless our potential can be, I aim to help others believe in themselves and explore the many options and powers that are held within to make this world a better place.
As seen on moonbodysoul.com:
Meet Our June Artist: Ciara Johnson
Jun 15, 2021
I am so excited to deep dive into one of my favorite humans that I am so luckily to have met on my path - Ciara Johnson. Her work is completely stunning, even before you realize she creates all of it without the use of a ruler or straight edge - aka Rulerless! You will find her work on our free pocket journals this month, as well as our order packaging and she even painted some unique mini canvases to include in your orders as well.
Meet Ciara...
What inspired you to create Rulerless & have you always had this talent to draw without a straight edge?
The interwoven line work really started in high school, I always found myself drawing these geometric shapes on the borders of all my homework. Then in my early twenties I created a few canvases that have since been lost to the past. But Rulerless really grew its roots when I was preparing for awake brain surgery in 2012. It was then that I became obsessed with creating my first two incredibly complicated dyptic canvases (shared right here below) and I haven’t stopped since.
I believe everyone has a talent, many talents. This talent has always lived within me, and throughout the last decade, with devotion and practice, the straight lines continue to improve. I like to think I’ve never given up on Rulerless, but the truth is, its never given up on me. This relationship continues to inspire me every day. I just can’t go the route of drawing with a straightedge, it takes away the entire meaning to me. I think when people see the work in person, they will understand the communication and relationship that really happens within.
What other styles or mediums of art do you like to create?
Honestly, I’ve never met a medium that I didn’t love! I explore and create with every type of medium I can get my hands on. Acrylic, watercolor, oil mediums and charcoal tend to be my main focus. But I have so many canvases, and journals filled with poetry (poetry is my first true love), sketch books filled with soft shapes of the female form, large format canvases that dig deeper with color theory and their play on emotions, but I always find myself having this desire to keep digging deeper and find the best ways to marry Rulerless with each aspect. But I am not limited to just straight lines. Lately I find myself wanting to create more emotionally driven monochromatic watercolor portraits of woman, I find myself skewing and distorting images into a type of visual poetry, and I really want to try sculpting and ceramics.
How do you balance life as a mom and a create art?
With the exception of this last year, I was a full-time working single mother and only found time to create during the hours between 9pm and 2am, non stop, and this is not a joke, I was barely getting any sleep! I’d repeat almost every day, waking up at 6am to do it all again. Even on days “off” if I was painting and drawing, I managed to make it work even if he was crawling all over me, needing my attention. He’s taught me so much patience and to have fun with it, and if schedules allow us, I tried to include him.Life with my sweet little has gotten so much easier with time, as he’s much more self sufficient now and truly sees and understands me as his mother and an artist, a creator. and We’ve grown together and have such a special, respectful relationship, he’s my anchor and it drives me to show him to never give up on something you truly believe in, no matter what twists and turns or distractions that life can throw at you. I actually ask for his opinions often because I know he will be brutally honest with me. This year it’s been really nice carving out my creative hours (from 11ish to dinnertime) that match the natural sunlight that shines through the windows. Its a whole new feeling not having to rely on spotlights to keep me going in the wee hours of the night anymore. And I do my best to take the day with grace, if I don’t complete as much as I hoped to, I won’t beat myself up about it anymore.
What dreams do you have for your artwork?
I have the biggest wildest dreams I’m conjuring up right now for Rulerless! It will always be my creation, a part of me, but its transforming and growing to something so much more than that, and I want it to be something that outlives my own lifetime.I see it more as a state of mind, a way of living better for yourself, not so much the tug and pull and distraction of society and comparisons, but really being the master of your destiny and true to yourself. In one word, its all the things that so many of us are aiming for: to be Rulerless. And I want it to become something that is relatable and empowering, and I’m aiming to create even stronger roots in sustainability, sourcing and care for the right communities. A major focus of mine right now can also be limited to one easy word, textiles! Its been something I’ve thought about since the early stages of Rulerless, and I can’t wait to share more with you. Please stay tuned!
What advice do you have for someone wanting to pursue being an artist?
I think we are all creators and artists at heart and we all have a natural talent, some better than others. But I think the magic really happens when you lean into your authenticity and create for yourself first, you'll find your own artistic voice and creation and see what sets you apart from the rest. You have to really dig deep within yourself and be vulnerable, consistent and devoted to your craft and make the time. Pablo Picasso has a great quote I remind myself of often when I sometimes feel at my lowest: “Inspiration exists, but it has to find you working”. I hope any artist finds the inspiration they seek within.
Where did you grow up and where do you currently live?
I was born and raised in Southern California, Fountain Valley to be exact, and found myself moving around and living along all the coastal cities until I landed myself in Los Angeles over 15 years ago. There’s one thing that I can’t be too far away from, and its the ocean.
If you could go anywhere in the world right now where would you go?
I have felt a strong pull to Italy this last year, I’d go in a heartbeat if I could. I’ve even been re-learning Italian since the pandemic hit, and I’m obsessed with Pasta Grannies. I just want to go with my loves, and be there where I can paint, eat pasta, drink wine. Greece too. I’m craving the fresh aspect of throwing myself somewhere completely new, just a different space, a different coastline.
What gets you out of bed in the morning?
I’ll be brutally honest here, sometimes I don’t want to. Sometimes I go too far into my anxiety or I have a depression bout and it takes hours to get me going. In the end, what gets me out of bed, is a real desire to not give up, a real desire to kick some doors open if I have to and prove to myself and others that I can do this. My son and some coffee certainly helps.
