"Anne's vivid approach to life provides the viewer with a snapshot into her creative soul. The underlying..."
"Anne John's work captures the essence of the human spirit. Her art masterfully changes and intrigues..."
"Anne John paints dreamlike, narrative pictures using symbolism that illuminate her sense of humor and..."
Anne John has been a Northwest artist for 25 years. During her youth in Bellevue, Washington, Anne had the unique opportunity to study under William Cummings and Liesal Salzer, whose influential teachings cultivated her love of the painted figure.
Anne furthered her technique by attending Washington State University, where she majored in visual art before moving to Vancouver to raise a family. She continued her education at PNCA in Portland, Oregon and the Oregon College of Arts and Crafts.
In 1984, Anne established the Johanne School of Art, teaching children of all ages the principles for drawing and painting in a relaxed atmosphere supporting the freedom of expression. She also worked within the Vancouver School District, instructing youth in art history, drawing and painting, and helping elementary teachers incorporate art into their classroom lessons.
Anne’s subjects are real people who model in thematic form. Her favorite models include her daughter and two daughters-in-law, though many friends have also found their way onto her canvases. Anne’s artwork often includes a variety of mediums, which highlight the narrative style she employs within a surreal framework. Recently her multilayered surfaces have involved collaged news articles related to the subject.
Her involvement in the Vancouver and Portland area art community includes serving as a juror for various shows, donating work for fundraising purposes and having her images featured in publications and newspapers. Anne John currently produces 40 pieces of art in Vancouver, WA each year, where she maintains a studio.