“Precarious,” an exhibit of paintings and prints by Josh Johnson of Indianapolis, IN, will be on display in Ashford University’s Cortona Art Gallery from Nov. 2 through Jan. 8. A reception for the artist is scheduled for Monday, Nov. 2 from 4-6 p.m. in the Gallery. 

“A fondness for the aged, worn, and forgotten find their way into my work,” Johnson said. “Through the color palette and subjects including browns, greens, old photos and cats, I convey my ideas. A strong emphasis is placed on design and craft from the use of an old letterpress or typewriter to the design and construction of a book. This is tempered by the organic manner in which I use watercolor and pencil on paper as the basis for the delivery of my aesthetic.”  

Johnson received his Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Indiana University and his handmade books (written, illustrated, designed and constructed by him) are in the collections of the Lilly and Fine Art Library at Indiana University. His storybook, “The Spindletons,” was published in 2006. Since 1993, he has been regularly attending comic book conventions. 

The Cortona Gallery is located on the second floor of Ashford University’s Clare Hall at 400 North Bluff Boulevard in Clinton. The Gallery is named for Sister Cortona Phelan, OSF, former president of Mount St. Clare College and former president of the Sisters of St. Francis.  For many years, Sister Cortona influenced the quality of education at the College through her teaching of American history and her love of the arts.  She also served as MSC Academy Principal and as Dean of Students at the College. 

The Gallery is open to the public, free of charge, every weekday from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. and for private showings by appointment. For further information, please call 563.242.4023. 

About Ashford University

Founded in 1918, Ashford University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (www.ncahlc.org). The University offers graduate and undergraduate degree programs online and at its Clinton, Iowa, campus.   The University is known for its high quality yet highly affordable online and on-campus programs. For more information, please visit www.ashford.edu or call Shari Rodriguez, director of Public Relations, at 858.513.9240 x2513.