You’ve opened up such a new and beautiful world for me to experience.
BM
“Johanna created a very safe set and setting. The musical arrangement, guidance and gentle reminders to drop 'down and in' to fully access all emotions was paramount. At one point, I welled up in tears and allowed that transmission to flow seamlessly while being fully expressed right on to the canvas. What a release! Thank you Johanna!”
Darryn
“I took this class on a whim and I am very glad I did. For me, it turned into an art therapy class which I didn’t realize I very much needed. Johanna got me out of my comfort zone and asked me to challenge myself creatively. I left the class with beautiful art and a feeling of joy. Thank you, Johanna!”
Rachel
Johanna is very skilled at facilitating the process rather than just the product of the creative “State of Flow” . She invited us to get curious about what color felt like and The result was a new found freedom of expression without letting the Inner Critic lead as I experienced her workshops. I so appreciated how Johanna so gently invited me to move beyond the boundaries of “mind” to express some emotions I did not even know I had repressed deep inside, some I was holding for my clients and some for myself that percolated quickly to the surface as they had a safe way to express themselves through the painting. She also guided me to notice how colors synchronistically held keys to feelings and messages in the corresponding chakras of the body which was fascinating.
Johanna truly has a gift for unleashing the “Universe Within” through the exploration of both color and intuition, so much so that I keep coming back for more of this amazing experience of ever expanding inner awareness.
Marcelle McGovern, LSWTelehealth Psychotherapist
Entering Johanna’s studio, one is surrounded by beauty. Each painting seems to be part of holding the space for diving into feeling and color. Johanna’s trust in the creative process makes a perfect launching pad for discovery of what’s inside. I was certainly surprised and equally delighted. A thoroughly immersive experience of sensual pleasure and insight. I highly recommend.
Nancy
There were a few things I loved about taking Johanna's abstract painting class. Johanna had lots acrylic paints in beautiful colors to choose from. Her brushes were a good quality. I enjoyed being in the presence of her gorgeous artwork. Best of all was Johanna's loving guidance and the sharing of her skillful knowledge. My painting is hanging over my table giving me inspiration while I eat.
Lucy
This class is so enriching… just like exercise, it’s challenging, but I’m always glad when I leave.
Maygirl
Johanna brings something more to the classroom. She brings her keen and understanding eye for people and their needs, with an ability to create a safe, warm, and creative community. With her enthusiasm, ideas, and rich experience of life, her lucky students leave her class knowing a lot about art - more importantly, they find ways to discover essential parts of themselves through her guidance, wisdom, and love.
Shu Shu
It’s always a pleasure to work with Johanna. Her personal vision, dedication, and sheer ability to turn complex ideas into clear, focused, and surprising art is inspiring, but what is truly extraordinary is her talent at applying her abilities to the task of bringing other’s visions into form. This ability is the core skill necessary for any strong teacher, and Johanna has it in spades.
Rebekah, Money Coach, http://thecompassionatemoneycoach.com/
Working with Johanna is like working with an Oracle. She just knows---how to move a group into well-being. I especially enjoyed her Mandala-making and dance workshop; inspiring and oh-so-calming, all in one session! I'm ready for more!
Dana, Awareness Coach, https://www.danalichtstrahl.com/
PS: I've also hired her to create masterful book covers!
Working with Johanna learning oil painting has been encouraging. I find that she shows me how to paint and draw freely tapping into my own creative expression, intuitively unlocking and discovering my inherent skills while providing traditional methods, color theory and perspective.
Casey
Johanna has been the leader of my art class for 10 years. Our group is comprised of trained and new students of various physical abilities. Johanna has helped each person grow. Her thoughtful and generous ability enables her to work with every individual. Her natural warmth and considerable talent make it possible to help everyone develop her own ability. I very much recommend her as a teacher and mentor for any situation.
Helen F.
My many years as one of your students have been wonderful. You started me on oil painting, which I had never done. You were so encouraging, so very helpful. I looked forward to every weekly class with you.
Helen D.
Last Jan/Feb I took one of Johanna's classes. I've never painted with oils, but always was curious to try. My experiences with watercolors were fleeting and many years ago. She is amazing. I learned a lot. Then - Covid and I was unable to continue with another class. Johanna has helped me over the phone with new paintings I have started since, and I am still learning! I am so grateful! I can see a real difference in my efforts from when our classes ended and my work today. She is a wonderful, super dedicated teacher!
Liz
Johanna's greatest talent is her ability to inspire each student to do their very best. I feel incredibly fortunate to be able to study with her, and the difference is obvious in my artwork!
Hope
Johanna, You Are The Best!! Not only are you a wonderful artist but you are a wonderful teacher. You are patient. encouraging and make us all feel comfortable at whatever stage of ability or advancement we have accomplished. I am a brand new beginner and find it exciting to bring home my very own paintings.
Rosalie