Dan Johnson

Artist Statement

My work focuses on exploring transformative or fugitive ideas about the human figure. Using line, I want to discover the energy possible through gesture and improvisation. In my latest work, I have begun using layering and reductive processes to discover new textures and effects, and then drawing forms again on those new surfaces.

My current work relates to past work by using similar methods and ideas but also builds on those by altering the surface textures and the spontaneously created subject matter. Inspiration is drawn from memory and relates to the human figure, natural objects like rocks and trees, and also man-made structures like buildings. Line is very important to my work, stressing the expressive qualities possible when drawing from memory.

I was born and raised in Davenport Iowa, and I have lived in the midwest for most of my life. I am married and have four children, ranging in age from 12 to 20. My previous education includes a BA and MA in English from Iowa State University. I am a college level professor as well as a freelance artist. I own and operate my own independent studio/ gallery, Black Line Fine Arts, in downtown Davenport.