Keelan Johnson is a multifaceted Artist, Educator, Organizer, and Mental Health Advocate based out of Chicago, IL and Seattle, WA.

Their core artistry focuses on authenticity and self-preservation, merging illustration, graphic design, and dance to explore themes of blackness, queerness, femininity/masculinity, and their intersections.

Their work has been featured at prestigious venues such as the Seattle Art Museum, Seattle International Dance Festival, Seattle Gay Pride Festival, On The Boards New Work, and Nordstrom. Keelan has also performed and collaborated with collectives, including Valtesse, Purple Lemonade, and Simone Pin.

A leader and educator in the PNW kiki ballroom scene, Keelan established Emerald City Kiki Sessions, providing a safe and educational space for the Black and Brown LGBTQI+ community to learn more about ballroom. In 2022, they became the creative director and an executive board member for the legendary House of Mattel’s PNW chapter. In 2023, they were appointed Creative Director for Strike a Pose, a local monthly ballroom night.

As an auntie and parental figure in the community, Keelan challenges their kids to create memorable moments, sharpen their creativity, and reach their full potential on and off the ballroom floor.