"Explorations in Order"

Artist statement: Painting in the midst of political divisions, recent wars, climate change, and even the concerns of social media, I find myself worrying constantly about the effects of these on individuals and communities. These issues add to the stressors in our already busy lives contributing to feelings of being overwhelmed and out of control.

Simplifying these concepts to shapes, colors, lines, and marks in my paintings allows me to remove the distractions. By manipulating the placement, size, and intensity of each, I create moods, make statements, and tell stories. In these paintings, I explore creating a visual sense of order. Arranging and organizing can bring comfort and feelings of control and security. There is a focus on finding mindfulness and equilibrium in the arrangement of the squares.

About the Artist: Kathleen Mitchell Johnston earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Studio Art from James Madison University in 1997. She was an art educator in Harrisonburg City Schools for many years.

She is now concentrating on painting full-time in her studio. Her work has been displayed
locally in solo and group exhibitions. She currently has work exhibited at The Local Chop and Grill House and YogaSol. You can follow her as she posts new artwork as well as works in progress on Instagram @kmitchelljohnstonart or on Facebook.

Join us for our First Fridays of the Valley Opening Reception

December 1st 5-7pm

Light refreshments will be provided and a chance to chat with the artist.