The Aviary Sessions
Acknowledgments
Artist Statement
An Exhibition by Jana Joplin Johnson · Joplin Studios
Each morning, the curtain rises on a grand performance in my own backyard.
The barn swallows are always the first to arrive, enthusiastically ushering me to my seat. Before long, the hummingbirds take their places, the Great Blue Heron makes a graceful entrance, and one by one the rest of the cast quietly gathers until the daily bird show begins. Somewhere between observation and imagination, the birds transform into stage performers, while a little white duck directs the performance.
Perhaps that's no surprise.
I come from a family of storytellers, artists, makers, lifelong learners, and careful observers. Bird watching has been passed down through generations, along with a deep appreciation for creativity and the beauty found in everyday moments.
Growing up immersed in the rich history of Memphis music, I was equally surrounded by another kind of performance. My grandmother, Janie Joplin, worked at WHER, one of the nation's first all-female radio stations founded by Sam Phillips during the birth of rock and roll. Through her, the remarkable musical history of Memphis became part of the soundtrack of my imagination.
As I spent more time sketching and studying the birds that regularly visited, each one slowly revealed its own personality. Some were bold, others mysterious, elegant, playful, or quietly commanding. Their unique characteristics naturally reminded me of the rhythm, humor, mystery, grace, and soul that have long defined Memphis music.
The Aviary Sessions is an invitation to pause, to observe, and to imagine. Within these works, birds become performers, nature transforms into a stage, and the musical history of Memphis quietly finds its way into every story.
My hope is that, as you move through this exhibition, you will slow down, look a little closer, and discover your own connections along the way.
Thank you for joining me on this journey through my imagination.
About the Artist
Jana Joplin Johnson
Joplin Studios · Fayette County, Tennessee
After more than three decades designing award-winning hospitality interiors for hotels and lodging facilities throughout the United States and around the world, Jana now brings the same eye for storytelling, craftsmanship, and experience design to her fine art.
Working under the name Joplin Studios, Jana creates artwork inspired by the wildlife surrounding her home and the rich musical history of Memphis. Blending detailed hand-drawn illustration with thoughtfully layered materials, her work invites viewers to slow down, look a little closer, and discover the stories hidden within each piece.
Today, Jana's work reflects a lifelong belief that the best design — whether found in a hotel, a gallery, or the natural world — has the power to tell stories and bring people together.
Special Thanks & Contributors
For everything you have helped with over the years — for listening, for encouraging, and for helping me figure it all out. You always go above and beyond for your daughters and it is always greatly appreciated. Johnny also handcrafted all of the stained wood frames for this exhibit.
For allowing me to turn our entire house into an art studio during this journey. For your love, encouragement, and support in so many ways.
For always listening to my crazy ideas and encouraging me along the way. Also, just thanks for being a great sister!
For being my second set of parents who also love the birds. John, for taking such care of my Godmother, for teaching me about "black fly larvae," and for my love of the bluebirds!
For all the late-night texting sessions, phone calls, helping stain frames on a moment's notice, and listening to me talk about all of this for so long now — ha! Thank you for being a true friend for all these years.
Thank you for planning and providing all of the decor and food for this event.
For all of your encouragement and for ALL of the things you helped me with — donuts, dinner, packaging, everything. You are the BEST!
For guiding us and helping us build our perfect "Aviary."
For providing the wood for panels and frames.
Drum heads, the Daisy plaque, and endless encouragement!
Guitar strings, encouragement, and support.
For encouragement, support, and late-afternoon happy hour sessions!
My wonderful neighbors — thank you for all the encouragement and support.
You know who you are and I love you all for being exactly who you are. I wouldn't change a thing about any of you — thank you for all your encouragement, love, and support over the years!
Thank you for graciously allowing the use of the Sun Studio name in connection with this exhibition. Your landmark role in the birth of rock and roll is woven into the very soul of The Aviary Sessions.
For listening to me talk about this project endlessly and still wanting to talk about it even more — ha! Thank you for your friendship and encouragement the past few years. It's been a journey, but one I am glad you were with me on for sure!
Late Grandparents — For teaching us the love of birds and nature as young children, for the storytelling, and all those creative "Letters from Janie" as a child — it all helped to spark my creativity.
A Note on the Birds
The eight species featured — Killdeer, Eastern Kingbird, Great White Egret, Great Blue Heron, American Goldfinch, Ruby-throated Hummingbird, Pileated Woodpecker, and Bald Eagle — are all real birds found across North America and in my own backyard in Fayette County, TN
If this game sparked any curiosity about the natural world, consider supporting your local Audubon Society chapter or a bird conservation organization near you. These birds are worth protecting.
Original Work & Legal Notice
All Artwork is Original
Every painting in The Aviary Sessions — including The Killer, Beale Street Blues, The Ghost, I Can't Help, Silver Lining, One for the Money, The Memphis Train, and Rhythm of Fire — is an original work conceived, painted, and titled by Jana Joplin Johnson. These works are not reproductions, derivatives, or licensed copies of any existing artwork. All rights to the paintings are retained by the artist.
The Aviary Sessions is an independent, original creative work. It is not affiliated with, endorsed by, sponsored by, or connected in any way to Jerry Lee Lewis, BB King, Roy Orbison, Elvis Presley, Charlie Rich, Carl Perkins, Rufus Thomas, Johnny Cash, or their estates, heirs, labels, or representatives.
The musicians referenced in this game are historical public figures whose names appear solely as part of a trivia and matching game built around original artwork. No likeness, recorded music, lyrics, or proprietary material belonging to any musician or their estate has been used.
The name Sun Studio is used with permission. Sun Studio is a registered trademark and historic landmark located at 706 Union Avenue, Memphis, Tennessee.
All bird facts are drawn from publicly available ornithological sources. All narrative text, game mechanics, and artwork are original creations of the artist. This game is presented for entertainment and educational purposes only. No commercial endorsement is implied or intended.
© 2026 Jana Joplin Johnson · Joplin Studios · All rights reserved.