Barb Johnson & Susan Miller: Our Walk

May 5-26, 2023
Barb Johnson & Susan Miller: Our Walk
Opening reception: Friday, May 5, 5:00-9:00 PM
Gallery hours: Monday-Friday 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Friday, May 12, 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM, and Saturdays (May 6 & 13 only) 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM.

The inspiration for this exhibition came during early morning walks through dew-covered pastures which provide the spiritual experience of nature. Our friendship developed as we participated in a community of artists called Art Group 21. Since we both live in Lenoir City, we began walking together three times a week which has continued to this day.

On our year-round walks which cover 80 acres of farmland, we watch the seasonal changes in weather conditions and vegetation. There is abundant evidence of wildlife in the fields, woods and along the gravel roads. We pass farm animals, plants and trees, new and deteriorating structures, and regularly used or abandoned farm equipment, elements we express in our artworks.

Barb Rybolt Johnson graduated with a teaching degree in Art Education from Indiana State University. In 2013, after years of teaching, she gave time to creating art, beginning with acrylic painting. Since then, she has been an active member of the Arts & Culture Alliance and Art Group 21. Her paintings have received awards in exhibitions at the Emporium, McGhee Tyson Airport, Oak Ridge Art Center, and the Plateau Creative Arts Center in Fairfield Glade.

Susan B. Miller received her BFA from the University of Tennessee in drawing. She has painted in watercolor since 2010. She is a signature member of the Tennessee Watercolor Society and Art Group 21, and she has received awards in local and national competitions.