John Johnstone

JOHN JOHNSTONE graduated from Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art, Dundee, in 1963, then gained a Post Diploma. He received a major travelling scholarship to visit European Capitals and continued his association with the art school as a part time lecturer for many years. Born and brought up in Forfar, John continues to live and work in the town, drawing inspiration and subject matter from every day life on which he casts a somewhat whimsical eye. He writes, "My paintings seem to be expressing something either serious or amusing about life. They depict people acting out minor dramas. Gesture, composition, characterisation and setting are important. There is an element of gravity in them, but the humorous side probably eclipses that aspect." In recent years, he has explored etching. There is much detail in his work which rewards close viewing. John has exhibited widely and has work in numerous public and private collections including those of HRH the Duke of Edinburgh and The McManus Gallery. He is a professional member of the Society of Scottish Artists and Scottish Visual Arts.  He is a regular exhibitor at the Royal Scottish Academy and the Scottish Society of Artists and is a professional member of the Scottish Society of Artists and Scottish Visual Arts.