Denton County Magazine • Sept_Oct 23 • John Bramblitt

Everyone has some creativity in them, says the owner of a new art bar in downtown Denton

When John Bramblitt lost his eyesight in college following complications from epilepsy and Lyme disease, his art was one of the many things he thought he would have to leave behind.

“I think I could draw before I could walk,” he said. “It’s always been a huge part of my life.”

After some experimentation, however, he taught himself to draw again and discovered a new art form — painting — that allowed him to not only reclaim his creativity but pass it on to others.

By experimenting with the thickness of different paint colors, Bramblitt creates detail-rich, vibrant paintings. He has shared his love of art with people around the country, teaching workshops at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Guggenheim Museum and the Dallas Museum of Art.

In 2017, Bramblitt decided to take his painting to new heights, becoming the first blind muralist in the world. He collaborated with Brooklyn street artist Rubin Sjöman to create the mural as part of a campaign to raise awareness about preventable blindness for World Sight Day.

A longtime Denton resident, Bramblitt also seeks to inspire creativity close to home. In April, he opened the Yellow Dog Art Bar & Gallery at 219 E. Hickory St. in downtown Denton. Patrons of the family-friendly bar can find all the tools they need to tap into their creative sides, from DIY craft kits to pottery to woodburning supplies. Bramblitt’s public studio is inside the establishment, where he often paints with his guide dog, Eagle, at his side.

Art classes and open mic nights for music and poetry are on the menu at the Yellow Dog, as is a celebration of Denton’s art scene, with the work of locals often featured and sold in the gallery. Also being served are snack boards, cappuccinos and signature drinks, like the spicy Frida Kahlo-inspired cocktail and another that is a nod to the Mona Lisa.

Bramblitt has known for several years that he wanted to bring a place like Yellow Dog to Denton. He envisions the space as an opportunity to demystify the artistic process.

“Twenty-seven years ago, the idea of a blind painter wasn’t really an idea, so I wanted to be in a space where anybody could come in and start drawing or painting or crafting or [creating] any kind of art or poetry,” Bramblitt said. “I wanted a studio space where I can actually be around people and talk to people and support local art.”

He often works with charities and nonprofits to raise money for worthy causes and help those with disabilities. His mural art continues, too. In July, Bramblitt painted a mural for Cook Children’s new neurology building in Fort Worth.

“Art is an incredible part of your life,” Bramblitt said. “It makes you focus on what you can do, and what you can’t do doesn’t even matter. It’s this wonderful, therapeutic thing.”