Through his cityscape and interior scenes, artist Geoffrey Johnson creates a world unto its very own. In a show opening May 17 at Principle Gallery, he will present 20 new paintings in his distinctive style of barely-there-figures in impressionistic backgrounds—continuing a trend focused on narrative and inspiring locales rather than a particular theme.
French Restaurant I, oil on board, 16 x 12"
“Geoffrey Johnson has created a world of narrative interpretation with his illustrious compositions,” says Taylor Chauncey, Principle Gallery assistant director. “His interiors evoke thought and his cityscapes capture the true essence of New York City. However, when I discuss Johnson’s work, I always tend to bring up his ability to evolve his work gradually. It began with his slow incorporation of color and has moved into new compositions. We’re beginning to see some restaurant/bar scenes, as we see in French Restaurant I, but Johnson always remains consistent with his style. An artist’s work needs to evolve throughout their career, but it doesn’t have to be drastically different. Johnson always keeps it fresh while staying true to what his audience loves.”
Grand Central V, oil on board, 36 x 24"
Johnson explains that after 30 years of painting, his work is best when he paints whatever his focus is at the time. “I really can’t paint according to a theme. It’s just not how my brain works,” Johnson explains. “Usually my work comes from recent travels or favorite places. New Orleans is a new city for inspiration, and NYC never disappoints. I’m also inspired by interiors, almost always of older buildings and houses. It is the mood of the interior that strikes me.”
For interior scenes like French Restaurant I, inspired by a Manhattan eatery, Johnson shares that “interiors have always drawn me in. It is such a creative space, and the natural light begs to be painted.” We also see a grand interior view in show piece Grand Central V. “What can I say? It’s Grand Central. I cannot seem to get away from it,” he says. “It is just an iconic space and I always see it in a new light. Also, against the neutral colors, figures are fascinating. Lately I have been using different gold paints, and Grand Central Station lends itself to gold.”
Untitled 149, oil on canvas, 50 x 50"
In his cityscapes, Johnson reveals quiet yet bold beauties like Corner Café. “This is [also] inspired by New York City, but it could really be anywhere,” he says. “The architecture in New York City, and the way the city is a grid gives great perspectives. Also, I love the ‘blue hour’ just before the sun sets. The sky against the lights of the city for about 45 minutes, is stunning.”
Johnson also works within the guidelines of his own finely tuned “editing process” that involves wiping and removing paint, often working in layers, and rotatimg between several pieces of work at any given time. “As for technique, I sketch out on the canvas or board, with the opposite end of the paintbrush, until I can get down what I have in my head successfully,” the artist says. “I always have a lot of work that has been started.”
Corner Café, oil on board, 36 x 36"
Johnson's solo show at Principle Gallery’s Alexandria, Virginia, location will open with a reception on May 17 from 6 to 8:30 p.m. and remain on view through June 10. —
Principle Gallery 208 King Street • Alexandria, VA 22314 • (703) 739-9326 • www.principlegallery.com
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