The Ohio Artist Registry (OAR) is an exciting opportunity for artists to share their work, connect with the creative community, and establish an online presence—all on a free, virtual platform! The OAR encourages artists working in all art forms, throughout Ohio and beyond, to create a profile, which allows them to better promote themselves and their work. Being listed in the OAR provides artists with new opportunities to share their work with clients, galleries, patrons, and audiences. A listing in the OAR does not confer an endorsement, approval, or verification by the Ohio Arts Council.
For more information, contact Kathy Signorino, artist programs director, at kathy.signorino@oac.ohio.gov or 614-728-6140.
Riley Johnson
Founder, Visual Artist ROO Creations Co.Arts ServicesBio
Riley Johnson is a freelance artist, entrepreneur, and student from Urbana, Ohio. His work blends realism and illustration to tell community stories through portraiture and public art. With over six years of experience as a freelance artist and founder of his portrait drawing company, ROO Creations, Riley has a deep affinity to capture character, pride, and legacy in his work.
He has completed large-scale mural projects, notably The Urbana Mural, a 1,380 sq. ft. public artwork recognized in America250–Ohio’s Murals Across Ohio program and ranked Top 3 nationally in Zibra’s Golden Brush Awards. Riley constantly explores how to merge artistry, community, and storytelling in projects that celebrate history, heritage, and the human spirit.
Among his accomplishments, Riley served as an Arts Juror for the Champaign County Fairgrounds, received a Miami University CCES Internship Grant, and was selected as the Spring 2026 commencement speaker for the Miami University College of Creative Arts Recognition Ceremony.
He is currently completing degrees in Arts Management & Arts Entrepreneurship, and Studio Art at Miami University, with the goal to scale his arts business in the Greater Cincinnati region after graduating in May 2026.
Artist Statement
I am an artful designer whose work tells community stories through aesthetic, bespoke visuals that shape how people and places are remembered. As an artist and designer, my creative practice centers on storytelling, community engagement, and transforming public space. I specialize in portraits, murals, and commissions that reflect identity, emotion, and connection.
