Coreen Johnson

Painting

Biography
COREEN JOHNSON

I began drawing at an early age following in the footsteps of my father. Born in Ireland, I emigrated to South Africa at the age of six. Studied art at high school and interior/graphic design at college.
Growing up in South Africa, was for me an immense privilege. Despite the many socio-political problems, it instilled in me a profound love for the vastness and diversity of it’s people and landscapes. The juxtaposition between the breathtaking array of different bio-climates, unparalleled abundance of wildlife and fauna, and a starkly savage reality that is life on this continent, had an enduring effect on me and my artistic interests.
After participating in a student exchange program in Minnesota, I met and married my husband and moved to a farm in the S. Central part of the state. I continued to paint and draw in my spare time and upon selling our livestock operation, renewed my concentration on pursuing a career as an artist.
Midwest vistas are certainly quite different to those in of South Africa and Ireland, but I enjoy the challenge of capturing (on canvas) the ambiance and atmosphere of the North American seasons. The contrasts in and of our world are endlessly fascinating.
Most of my work comprises of oil paintings on canvas. The subject matter is primarily landscapes and cityscapes, although from time to time, I enjoy painting wild and domestic (especially horses) animals. I also do some pastel/charcoal/ink drawings.