John Olivas

John, a self-taught artist and a former Californian firefighter, relocated to Oklahoma. In 2016 after experiencing a stroke that resulted in the loss of use of his right hand, John moved to Oklahoma seeking closer proximity to his family and greater economic independence. At Tulsa’s Center for Individuals with Physical Challenges, John began exploring art as a means of recovery and creative exploration. Utilizing his left hand, John has developed a diverse and innovative practice that encompasses acrylic painting, photography, and mixed-media sculpture.

The subjects for his paintings often derive from imagery he dreams of. Many of his paintings are abstract in nature. John also finds joy in combining playfulness with purpose by crafting functional sculptures using LEGOs and found objects.

Prior to his career as a firefighter, John nurtured a passion for horticulture, which he pursued through high school and college course. Currently, he continues to integrate art into his ongoing recovery and development, committed to pushing creative boundaries while navigating life with disability.

His work has been featured in several exhibitions throughout the Tulsa area, including the Tulsa Arts Council’s 5x5 Show, Tulsa Community College’s Please Touch the Art, and the Sapulpa Art Guild’s Annual Exhibition.