Originally from Ohio, Dolly Johnson was encouraged to pursue her talent for the arts by her parents, Ed and Sally Crooks. A scholarship student at the Cleveland Institute of Art, Dolly spent many weekends at the Cleveland Art Museum studying to enhance and refine her talents. After sixteen years in the Graphic Arts, she decided to follow her love of wildlife and natural arts.
Dolly frequented Chincoteague Island with her family, where she enjoyed the beach, fishing and the beauty of nature. In 1985, she retired to the Eastern Shore along with her husband, Marty. Dolly was active in Cay Design Art & Framing, a shop owned and operated by her daughter, Erica. She was the featured artist at Cay Design, and she continued to produce new artwork until her death in 1998.
Specializing in woodburnings, Dolly captured the beauty of the Shore's wildlife and surroundings in her artwork.
Mother
Through her eyes I saw the joy and beauty
of the world.
With her guidance I have had the opportunity
to experience it.
I wish that I might be left with her strength,
to be all that she had hoped for me.
Some mothers touch us from the moment
we are born,
and hold our hearts with hands of comfort
no other can replace.
I love you Mom.
your daughter, Erica