Local Artist Exhibition
| Published: 25th August 2008 15:06 |
The life and landscapes of Harry H Johnson
A retrospective exhibition of the life and works of Northampton-born artist Harry H Johnson is to go on display at the 
Northampton Museum and Art Gallery on Saturday (23 August).
Harry was a self-taught artist who painted prolifically in watercolours during his lifetime (1904 - 2002).
Northampton was his home town and features greatly in his earlier works. He travelled widely throughout Britain and Europe, which is reflected in his paintings and drawings.
Alison Marks, Northampton Borough Council art and exhibitions officer, said: Harry's paintings capture beautifully the nature and architecture that inspired him. His zest for life is plain for all to see. He was a truly gifted artist and it is a privilege to show his works."
Harry is quoted as saying 'There is enough beauty to keep me occupied all my life', which turned out to be true. He painted right up to his late 80s when his eyesight began to fail. He then turned his hand to writing an account of his life, which gives a wonderful insight into a period of enormous transformation.
He wrote of the coming of electricity, cars and cinema as well his life in Northampton from before the first world war until he moved to Lancashire in 1957. His recollections include the visit to Northampton by King George V in 1910 and the day in 1912 when a single-seater monoplane piloted by a local wealthy landowner landed in the middle of the Racecourse.
Excerpts from his life story will be shown alongside his paintings at the exhibition called 'Delight in Composition' which runs until 5 October.
