1. Indeed, Johnson prefers painting in the
morning or late afternoon because, as
she says, “The light effects are more
interesting.”
When she’s not immersed in her paint-
ing in the field or in her studio at home,
Johnson is not far away from her easel.
She teaches art in adult education classes
in Yarmouth, Cumberland and Freeport.
Even with such a busy schedule, the
students she teaches appreciate her
demeanor. One of her students, she says,
recently described her as “amazingly
kind and patient.” Her reaction: “I’ll take
that!”
Johnson has a strong interest in teach-
ing and has been teaching her entire
adult life, whether it’s been in public
schools or through nonprofit organiza-
tions. After she received her master’s
degree, she started offering classes near
her home and has been teaching adults
since 2006.
No doubt her dedication to teaching
also comes through in her paintings. If
you’re lucky enough to see one of John-
son’s exhibitions, it won’t take long for you
to notice the “magical” in her art.
“The theme that occurs most frequent-
ly in my work is the subtle juxtaposition of
contrasting elements. For example, when
searching seemingly tranquil landscapes
I look for ways to suggest energy and
vitality. I strive to create a tangible sense
of atmosphere in my works – a deja vu
feeling of sorts. As I work with pastels,
layer after layer of pigment, I find myself
thinking about the ‘air’ that seeps into
and around each layer as the pigment
begins to resemble landscape.”
Magical, yes. Look for her entry in this
year’s Art in the Park.
ARTIST,
Continued from Page 3
Late Day Sun, by Diana Johnson, was selected for Best in Show at last year’s
Art in the Park. She also has submitted an entry for this year’s show.