Brenda studied art in several universities before getting her BFA at Wichita State University, later she completed an MFA at the University of Iowa. She pursued theatre and design work in Boston and Chicago. She has served on the faculty at Cornell University, Carlton College, and California State San Bernardino. In Los Angeles she spent a number of years working as a scenic artist and muralist.

Brenda C. Johnson is best known for her palm tree paintings. Recently, she has turned her attention to the reflections and silhouettes of the shore and it's birds, as well as continuing to explore the many personalities of the palm.

"My paintings are not purely representational, but ask to be explored at many levels. They bring stillness in a chaotic world. They should draw you to that timeless space of your own thoughts. Subliminally, they are studies of diversity, perseverance and survival."