Jennifer Johnson has a message for folks who aren’t experts in yoga, art or music. Her studio, called Y.A.M. because it features all three, is a welcoming place to hang out, meet friends and learn new forms of self-expression.
Johnson is hosting “Y.A.M. Glam” Nov. 5 featuring two local artists who’ve developed widespread followings. Amy Voss is a former record promoter who creates one-of-a-kind glass art sculptures using acoustic guitars as her canvas. Her work has hung in the Louvre in Paris and in the homes of musical artists including Katy Perry. Taylor Daum’s paintings are bold and colorful. Her focus is nature, and she transitions comfortably between multiple styles.
“Both artists have great down-to-earth vibes,” says Johnson, who opened Y.A.M. in 2019 with her late husband, Trey. From the beginning, the Johnsons hung the art of local artists on their studio walls.
“Yoga is me, music was my husband and art was our combined passion,” says Johnson of Trey, founder of State Fair Records and the rock band Sorta. “Y.A.M. was our dream, our family business. We could walk here. Both of our kids have worked here.”
Y.A.M. has hosted multiple Sofar Sounds concerts, the mystery shows for which patrons purchase tickets without knowing the location or performer. About 24 hours before the show, patrons are told when and where to show up.
“The sound in here is amazing,” says Johnson, pointing out the high-quality speakers and SoundCloud acoustic panels in the ceiling. “The sound is like none other.”
Located in Lakeridge center, the studio was designed as a convertible space for multiple uses. Johnson rents it for parties and special events, including birthdays, bachelorette doos and concerts. At one Joshua Ray Walker show, guests were treated to charcuterie trays from RM 12:20 nearby.
“There’s nothing like this in Lake Highlands. When we opened, we wanted to elevate the art and music scene in East Dallas and Lake Highlands. You have to go to Deep Ellum or the Arts District to find something similar.”
Johnson says her goal is to bring exposure to the art of Daum and Voss, and to help Dallasites see Lakeridge as a hip destination.
“Everyone in this center is local,” she says. “We’re adding culture to the mix.”
As for the art show, she wants patrons to know it’s all fun and no pressure.
“This is not like a boutique pop-up, where you feel like if you show up you have to leave with something,” says Johnson. “This is a gallery vibe. Just come and enjoy. Meet the artists and have a drink. We’ll have the doors open and the music playing.”
Y.A.M. Glam will feature beer from Vector Brewing and snacks from Taco Joint. The party runs from 6-9 p.m. and attendance is free, but online registration is requested here, and 10% of sales will go to East Lake Pet Orphanage. Y.A.M. is at 9850 Walnut Hill Lane, #427.
