MONROE — The mixed media paintings of Wisconsin artist Megan Woodard Johnson will be on exhibit in Monroe Arts Center’s Wellington and Muranyi Galleries by appointment until Jan. 15.

“For me, the meeting place between private moments and shared or universal experiences offers never-ending inspiration,” Johnson said. “Finding the connections through those reminds us of how universal our experiences really are, and how many lovely things we have in common.” 

Johnson’s abstract works combine collage, paint and mark-making to create densely layered, color-driven abstract paintings. Her goal is to capture the way huge varieties of moments converge to create personal histories, and offer opportunities to slow down and find points of connection with one another.

“I approach each piece by engaging with the nostalgia called forth by vintage paper ephemera, which I add as collage elements to many layers of my own painted and drawn lines and gestures. Just as in life, engaging compositions emerge from organization merged with spontaneity, resulting in a celebration of the complex history of a single moment, and the surprise discovery of a common thread,” Johnson said.

Over the past twelve years, Johnson has shown her work in numerous juried group and solo exhibitions and events throughout the Midwest. Her work hangs in collections across and beyond the United States and she is represented by galleries in Wisconsin, Michigan and Vermont. In 2019, Johnson added exhibition curator and Artist Mastermind facilitator to her resume, building connections with and helping support artists around the country.

This exhibit has been made possible by MAC Corporate Underwriter Colony Brands, Inc., and Season Media Underwriter Big Radio, and with additional support provided by Mike and Shelley Muranyi, Paul and Sue Barrett, David and Julie Buchanan, Gof and Mary Thomson, Pete Guenther and Barb Woodriff, Don Amphlett and Jan Johnson, David and Janeen Babler, and Chuck and Chris Wellington.