Kathleen Mitchell Johnston

ARTIST STATEMENT: I am a process artist and a colorist influenced from a young age by the work of the Abstract Expressionists and Color Field painters. I am currently exploring the divisions of space and power of color. Beginning with a pencil or thin brush, I thoughtfully divide the surface into shapes developing a composition that appeals to me. Frequently, my paintings resemble grids which symbolize feelings of organization and the type of comfort that comes from having a structure in place. In some pieces, I measure out evenly spaced marks using a ruler to carefully draw lines creating satisfying repetitions. Other times, I divide the space in a less predictable way. Equally important to my process is the way I layer acrylic and oil paint so the colors react to one another by contrasting or blending. Hues, saturations, and tones are carefully balanced to make soft or bold statements. ARTIST BIO: Kathleen Mitchell Johnston is an artist located in the beautiful Shenandoah Valley of Virginia. Originally from Roanoke, she now lives in Harrisonburg. Although she has always called Virginia home, she loves to travel and draw inspiration from other places. Kathleen has a Bachelor of Science in Studio Art with a minor in Art Education from James Madison University. Her artwork often reflects experiences from both being a mother and her many years working with children as an art educator. Kathleen’s paintings can be found in collections throughout the United States and Canada. CONTACT: kmitchelljohnston.com