Our Story

Art Only Boutique

Established in 2008, is a distinctive collection of original artwork by Dara Harper & Diane L. Johnson. The boutique produces contemporary acrylic paintings, home decor, wearable art, and art curriculum for all ages.

As a mother-daughter team we advocate for and love the community where we work and live. In 2021 we became co-founders of the Akron Black Artist Guild, a non-profit collective that defines new ways to work together and supports artists through networking and resource opportunities. 

Proverbs 18:16 A man's gift makes room for him and brings him before great men.


  • Dara Harper

    FOUNDER

    Dara Harper, a passionate, creative entrepreneur, artist, and educator, is a true testament to the power of art and education. Her academic journey at the University of Akron, where she earned a Master's in Curriculum and Instruction, a Bachelor's in Studio Art with a focus on Painting and a Minor in Art History, has significantly shaped her artistic prowess. This is evident in her public installations at the Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Downtown Cuyahoga Falls, Morgan Park, North Hill, Firestone Park, Kenmore and the West Side of Akron.

    When Dara Harper says, "Engaging the community and spaces through art is part of my purpose as an artist," she is not just making a statement, but revealing her artistic philosophy and her approach to community engagement. Her art is a tool for connection, communication, and change.

    Dara Harper's commitment to using art as a catalyst for change is a personal mission and a community endeavor. Her leadership roles include:

    Executive Director & President of theAkron Black Artist Guild.

    2024/2025 Teaching Artist with Barberton Intermediate School through the Ohio Arts Council TeachArts Ohio grant. 

    Dara's active participation in the Sojourner Truth Legacy Plaza Education Committee and the Soul of Philanthropy Steering Committee demonstrate her dedication to community engagement.

  • Diane L. Johnson

    FOUNDER

    Diane L. Johnson is an Akron-based artist, Co-founder of the Akron Black Artist Guild and retired Administrative Secretary from Fairlawn-Copley Public School District.

    Her passion for art is second nature, she creates original paintings, drawings, and mixed media pieces. She also enjoys writing devotions and short stories and instructing workshops. Diane's artwork displays soulful acrylic paintings and illustrations showcasing her passion for modern abstract and impressionistic inspirations. Her figurative works of women depict the simple joys of living.

    Diane believes “Although a woman’s life is complicated her beauty and grace always emerges from the ashes.”