JOHANNA was born in the Netherlands and moved with her family to Alberta, Canada at a young age. Her upbringing in a European household focused on the importance of art and music as part of daily life. She practiced piano diligently, but in her teenaged years started to focus on art, which came more naturally to her.

Having received excellent instruction in art at the high school level, Johanna decided to continue her art training at the University of Calgary, receiving her Education degree majoring in Fine Arts. A couple of trips to Europe in the 70's included a “Study Abroad” program in Florence, Italy. Johanna has had the privilege to study the art of many European countries. When she came home, she continued studies at the University of Alberta and Summer Series at Red Deer College.

In 1991, Edmonton Public Schools changed art classrooms into computer labs at the elementary schools. Seeing a niche market for her training, Johanna started her own business, “Originals Art Studio,” mentoring many award-winning students over the past 30 years.

Johanna was recently named as one of the "Top 60 Masters of Contemporary Art" by Art Tour International Magazine, New York. Recent shows in New York and Paris have raised her profile to an international level.

Johanna's work can be found in private collections and public spaces across Canada, in the United States, Europe and Japan.

ARTIST STATEMENT

Currently, I am working on a new series, the African Connection, consisting of ten paintings.

During COVID I had extra time on my hands as my business was shuttered for the better part of a year. I spent more time on line, gaming and on social media. I started chatting with some folks, soon to discover that most of them were impersonating others. Their use of the English language was different from mine. I approached them on this and most came clean to me helping me discover a world of mystery and intrigue a continent away.

These people have become part of my daily life for a time, sharing videos and stories, their frustrations, hopes and dreams. This series, African Connection, is their voice and they are happy to be heard. The research has definitely taken an emotional toll on my own psyche. But these are real people and their story must be told.

The Series will be ready for exhibition in the Spring of 2023.