An Exhibit of Heart & Art johnny johnson’s workshop annual exhibit by collette caprara a veterinarian, a nurse, teachers, doctors, business owners, military personnel, and master gardeners!" she said. "Artists seldom missed a class. There was just too much good art fun and instruction to skip."
Pat Knock All are invited to explore the uplifting and inspiring creations of the artists of Johnny Johnson's Watermedia Workshop in their annual exhibit which will be displayed at the Fredericksburg library throughout January and February. In addition to experiencing the delight of the artwork of a spectrum of talented and innovative painters, guests may also feel the magic of an atmosphere imbued with heart and depth. That spirit reflects the essence of the ultimate teacher, Johnny Johnson, which is also evident in the work of every artist whose life he has touched. Launched more than 25 years ago and held at the Dorothy Hart Community Center, Johnny's workshop quickly became a legend in its own time, with artists queuing up to register before the class was full. Acclaimed watercolorist Beverley Coates recalls her experience when she joined the group in 1996 (which she still gathers with weekly). "When I joined my first session, my discovery of watercolor happiness began! Throughout
Cindy Whitesides my 26 years with the workshop, our class has included a four-star general, florists,
Bev recalls that Johnny would often enlist a model who was an artist's family member or friend and that the workshop included periodic ventures such as plein air sessions at the Rappahannock rapids or the Potomac River shores at Aquia Harbor. The class typically included a period where artwork was displayed and "critiqued," but always with much praise and constructive suggestions. Johnny continually challenged the artists to move beyond their comfort zones, urging us to "use more pigment" to spark a subject to life or "faster, faster" when a wet-on-wet creation was in process. He
introduced surprising artistic tools, ranging from plastic wrap to toothbrushes and sponges in demonstrations where a "happy accident" would tap new levels of creativity and imagination. "Johnny was kind and encouraging to those of us who were just beginning to find our 'art legs.' But, the experienced teacher that he was, Johnny could also be challenging. Our group still laughs about his tendency to set up stilllife arrangements that left us groaning about the aesthetics of a collection of rusty tools," said Katie Green who has painted with the workshop for nearly 10 years. She recalls that Johnny often challenged the artists not only to expand artistically but to explore and recognize their responses to subjects that might be considered sensitive, such as one still-life arrangement that included an African mask and a painted wooden slice of
watermelon. When she reacted with what today might be called "white fragility," Johnny just nodded and laughed. "I was so excited to join Johnny Johnson's Watermedia class five years ago, but that emotion was accompanied by a feeling of trepidation when I found myself among so many talented artists," said Kathleen Mullins. "In short time, that fear turned to gratitude when I recognized the fine nature of the man and teacher that Johnny is. I will always be grateful for the encouragement and guidance that he gave in his critiques. Not only am I a better watercolor artist because of Johnny, I am a better person for knowing and emulating him." William Wachter, who has been with the workshop since 2015, recalls that he first met Johnny when a library exhibit was being set up. "I asked him if those artists were his disciples," he said. "He invited me to the opening reception and I subsequently joined his watercolor and acrylic classes." Wachter said he painted a portrait of Johnny based on another artist's photo, and when he heard that Johnny's wife, Jean, liked it, he gave it to her. "I learned that spirit of generosity from Johnny," he said. "He was always generous with his knowledge, his tools, and his friendship." Another portrait Wachter did of Johnny won a first-place at Fredericksburg Women's Club Exhibition and he gave that to Johnny as well. "His own generosity with charitable groups set the gold standard for donating art. Even today, I give away my family portraits," said Wachter. "He was unfailingly kind but willing to rattle the cage of anyone who could handle the ribbing. We had fun together." "Simply put, Johnny is a towering figure in our local Fredericksburg history-an exceptionally gifted, internationallyrecognized artist with a style that is uniquely recognizable," said artist Jim Ramsbotham. "He is ten times as good a teacher of art as he was an artist. And
William Wachter ten times as good a human being as he was teacher. An example of what humility should look like--a modest sense of his considerable gifts and a passion for sharing them with others." "The hallmark of Johnny's workshop is its wonderful camaraderie," said Coates. "This has been a top-notch experience of my lifetime. Johnny is an outstanding human being and I am so grateful to know him"
William Wachter The artists' portraits that accompany this article reflect their respect and gratitude for Johnny Johnson and his guidance, as well as their appreciation for his heart and character. Their works can be viewed in the theater of the FXBG Branch of the Central Rappahannock Regional Library, 1201 Caroline Street, from January 3 through February 23. For hours, visit librarypoint.org or call (540) 372-1 1144. Collette Caprara is an artist & writer
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