Biography
Ben Johnson studied painting at The University of the Arts in Philadelphia before enrolling in the Certificate Program at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts. As a student, Ben found an early direction in Impressionist-influenced paintings that focused on the natural world as it expresses itself in urban areas as well as in the wild.
Upon graduation from the Academy's Certificate Program, Johnson began showing his work professionally in Philadelphia with Artist's House Gallery, where he continues to exhibit. As Johnson’s work gained exposure, he has expanded his exhibition schedule, showing in Martha’s Vineyard, MA with The Field Gallery, in Ocean City, NJ with Accent Gallery, and in Port Aransas, Texas, with Port A Gallery.
More recently, Johnson’s natural studies have turned toward Ornithology. Bird watching has led him to produce a broad series of intricate bird paintings. Johnson says, "Birds inspire a natural ascension. They’re stunningly beautiful, and the gift of flight places them directly in the realm of spirituality and mystery. In these paintings, I’m discovering more about the birds themselves, but simultaneously I’m searching for the vastness of flight as it exists in me. I’m hoping that I also evoke that search for those who view my paintings.”
While Johnson's work has become more detailed as his paintings have developed, the mystery and open-ended quality that has been ever present in his work continues to be an important aspect of every piece. For Johnson, maintaining a delicate balance between key details and mystery is one of the true satisfactions and challenges inherent in the art of painting.
Ben and his wife Elizabeth Rollins live in Tucson, Arizona, where he is the Curator of Exhibitions at Tohono Chul Park.
·View a profile of Ben Johnson in American Art Collector, June 2008·