Kathryn Kay Johnson
About Kathryn Kay Johnson
Kathryn Kay Johnson is a Beinecke Rare Book Library Research Fellow at Yale University, focusing on the expression of underrepresented histories and mythologies in her design practice. She has a background in graphic design and has held various roles, including Junior Art Director at The Brand Collective, Inc. and Founder of BTWN Culture Apparel.
Work at Yale University
Kathryn Kay Johnson serves as a Beinecke Rare Book Library Research Fellow at Yale University. She has held this position since 2021, contributing to the library's mission of preserving and promoting rare books and manuscripts. Her research focuses on the expression of underrepresented histories and mythologies, aligning with her broader interest in liberation through design.
Education and Expertise
Kathryn Kay Johnson earned a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Graphic Design from Yale University, completing her studies from 2020 to 2022. Prior to this, she obtained a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Fine and Studio Arts from Florida State University, where she studied from 2012 to 2016. Her educational background supports her expertise in design and the arts.
Professional Background
Before her current role at Yale, Kathryn Kay Johnson worked in various positions within the design field. She was the Founder and Art Director at BTWN Culture Apparel from 2018 to 2020, where she focused on branding and design. Additionally, she served as a Junior Art Director at The Brand Collective, Inc. for one year in Miami, Florida, and worked as a Designer for The Last Word Magazine at Florida State University.
Design and Creative Projects
In her design practice, Kathryn Kay Johnson emphasizes the importance of underrepresented histories and mythologies. She has collaborated with the Product Development team to create unique jewelry pieces and their branding for national retailers. Her work reflects her commitment to exploring the relationship between autonomy, access to education, and ancestral knowledge.