Emmy-nominated costume designer Virginia B. Johnson grew up with a “dragon mother,” which shaped her structured habits and her ability to work smoothly amid chaos. Her childhood was filled with intergenerational connection and crafting - learning sewing, embroidery, knitting and crocheting from a “flock of Filipina aunties,” which fostered not only a sense of community, but a foundational skill for her eventual career. Although she was a pre-med major in college, a serendipitous side gig in a college theater costume shop sparked a passionate pivot to a career that now includes critically-acclaimed and award-winning projects like Hillbilly Elegy and American Primeval, and the opportunity to lead teams in the art of deploying deep craft and rigorous, reverent cultural authenticity to drive powerful storytelling.
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What’s the best advice that you’ve ever gotten?
“Stand in the possibility.” This was in response to me wondering if I should apply for a job that I thought I might not have the experience for. The costume shop stitcher told me to apply and “stand in the possibility.” That has been part of every endeavor - personal and professional.
What’s your current favorite tool or material to work with?
This is corny but my favorite tool is my hands. I do so much with my two hands - type, draw, paint, thread needles, cut fabric, pick tomatoes, pet my cats… and I carry different palm stones gifted to me by various friends and colleagues over the years. Holding these stones in my hand keeps me grounded.
What books are on your nightstand?
I am an avid reader. Talking about books brings me so much joy. Currently reading;
Welcome to Night Vale by Joseph Fink, Jeffrey Cranor
Future Home of the Living God by Louise Erdrich
Ambition Monster: A Memoir by Jennifer Romolini
The Serviceberry: Abundance and Reciprocity in the Natural World by Robin Wall Kimmerer
Favorite restaurant in your city?
Sarma in Somerville, Massachusetts
Who do you look up to and why?
So many people! The first two people I ever looked up to were my grandmothers: Nita and Christina. They were resourceful, stylish (in totally different ways), and walked through life with purpose. Nita never held back and always spoke truth to power. Christina never showed up empty handed and had the best shoes, even when traveling from Manila (Philippines) to Long Beach (California, USA) overnight to help raise 3 grandchildren - she arrived in 3” embroidered stilettos!
What are the last five songs you listened to?
Wild Child by Enya
I Want to Dance With Somebody by Whitney Houston
We Found Love by Rihanna, Calvin Harris
Unwritten by Natasha Bedingfield
Walking on Sunshine by Katrina and the Waves
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