James W. Johnson is a multidisciplinary artist, nonprofit executive, and community builder working at the intersection of art, fabrication, education, and creative practice. His work explores how accessible creative spaces, collaborative systems, and hands-on learning can foster connection, resilience, and meaningful cultural participation.
With a background in theater arts, scenic design, fabrication, photography, and emerging technologies, James approaches creative work through experimentation, interdisciplinary practice, and storytelling. His projects often combine traditional crafts with digital systems, electronics, fabrication, and environmental design to explore new forms of interaction and making.
As Executive Director of Make Santa Fe, James has helped grow the organization into a multidisciplinary creative hub supporting artists, makers, educators, and entrepreneurs through shared infrastructure, public programming, workforce development, and accessible arts education. His leadership focuses on building sustainable creative ecosystems that remain human-centered, collaborative, and rooted in community.
Whether designing immersive theatrical environments, building fabrication systems, teaching workshops, or developing public creative initiatives, James is driven by a belief that creative practice should be accessible, participatory, and deeply connected to the communities it serves.
Current Roles
Executive Director, MAKE Santa Fe
Owner/CEO, Mindshare Labs, Inc
Santa Fe Economic Development Advisory Committee
Freelance Set Designer
Award Winning Fine Art Photographer
Past Roles
Board of Directors, Santa Fe Playhouse
Flat Rock Playhouse, Assistant Scene Designer
NDI New Mexico, Marketing & Communications
Education
University of Idaho, BFA Theater
University of Idaho, BA Art