Ynez Johnston Art
American, 1920-2019
Frances Ynez Johnston (May 12, 1920 – 2019) was an American painter, sculptor, printmaker and educator. Her artwork is modernist and abstract with a narrative of imaginative lands or creatures, and often featuring collage.
Johnston was born on May 12, 1920, in Berkeley, California. She attended University of California, Berkeley to study with Worth Ryder and received her bachelor of fine arts in 1941. She traveled to Mexico in the early 1940s to continue her studies, returning to Berkeley in 1943, earning her Masters of Fine Arts in 1946.
In 1960 she married novelist and poet John Berry. In the years following she produced prints through the Tamarind Lithography Workshop.
Johnston started teaching art classes at various universities and colleges in 1950 and ended teaching in 1980.[8] She began at University of California, Berkeley (1950–1951) and then continued her teaching career at Colorado Springs Fine Art Center (1954–1955), Chouinard Art Institute (1956), California State College (1966–1967, 1969, 1973), the University of Jerusalem (1967), and Otis Art Institute of Parsons School of Design (1978–1980).
Her work is featured in various permanent collections including the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), the Whitney Museum of American Art, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Smithsonian American Art Museum, the Art Institute of Chicago, the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), the Spencer Museum of Art, the National Gallery of Art, Fullerton College, the McNay Art Museum, the University of Michigan Museum of Art, the Indianapolis Museum of Art, and others.
Johnston was awarded a Guggenheim Fellowship in 1952 for fine art, which allowed her travel to Italy. In 1955–1956 she was awarded the Louis Comfort Tiffany Foundation grant for painting and printmaking, and was awarded the National Endowment for the Art (NEA) grant in 1976 and 1986.
In addition to her intricate prints and paintings, Johnston also created three dimensional pieces in collaboration with her husband and with ceramic sculptor Adam Mekler.
Her watercolors, oils and etchings of the 1950s and 1960s were rich with complex imagery, and displayed a disciplined, restrained use of color. In later mixed-media pieces, she examined the tactile qualities of surface. Her paintings incorporated soil, acrylic, dyes, encaustic on cloth, canvas, and raw silk. Composite forms suggest ambiguous architectural, human, animal and plant shapes. Johnston cited Persian and Indian miniatures as influences but also drew inspiration from European abstract artists Matisse, Miro, Klee and Picasso.
Ynez Johnston died in 2019 in Los Angeles, California.to
1
2
2
Overall Width
to
Overall Height
to
5
1
2
1
1
1
3
2
2
2
1
1
1
6
9,962
2,752
1,376
1,373
4
1
5
Artist: Ynez Johnston
Ynez Johnston Abstract Watercolor & Gouache Painting, 1985, 20th Century Modern
By Ynez Johnston
Located in Denver, CO
This striking 1985 abstract painting by celebrated Colorado Springs artist Ynez Johnston (American, 1920–2019) exemplifies her imaginative approach to modernist abstraction. Executed...
Category
1980s Abstract Expressionist Ynez Johnston Art
Materials
Watercolor, Gouache
UNTITLED
By Ynez Johnston
Located in Portland, ME
Johnston, Ynez. UNTITLED. Etching, not dated (but likely 1950s). Edition of 20, signed in pencil and numbered 4/20. 6 7/8 x 9 inches (plate), 8 x 10 5/8 inches (sheet). In excellent ...
Category
1950s Ynez Johnston Art
Materials
Etching
$1,400
'Tribal Coast', Expressionist Woman artist, Museum of Modern Art, Guggenheim
By Ynez Johnston
Located in Santa Cruz, CA
Signed lower right, 'Ynez Johnston' (American, b. 1920) and dated 1964; additionally inscribed 'imp' lower right, titled lower center 'Tribal Coast' with number and limitation, 198/2...
Category
1960s Ynez Johnston Art
Materials
Paper, Engraving
"HUNTING SCENE II" Lithograph by Ynez Johnston
By Ynez Johnston
Located in Pasadena, CA
"Hunting Scene II," a lithograph by American artist Ynez Johnston created in 1964, is part of a series published by the International Graphic Arts Society (IGAS) in September 1965. L...
Category
1960s Modern Ynez Johnston Art
Materials
Paper
DYNASTIC SCENE
By Ynez Johnston
Located in Portland, ME
Johnston, Ynez (American, 1920-2019). DYNASTIC SCENE. Colored etching, not dated. Edition of 50, numbered, titled, and signed in pencil. 11 3/4 x 8 5/8 inches (Plate), 16 1/2 x 12 3/...
Category
Mid-20th Century Ynez Johnston Art
Materials
Etching
Related Items
Untitled (Two Birds) - Etching by Max Ernst - 1972
By Max Ernst
Located in Roma, IT
Etching and aquatint on Japan paper, realized in 1972.
Printed and published by Georges Visat, Paris.
Edition of 100, numbered 99/100 and hand signed in pencil.
Category
1970s Surrealist Ynez Johnston Art
Materials
Etching
Original drawing-Golden Summer- British Awarded Artist, custom frame included.
Located in London, GB
Shizico spent three days painting this plein air in her sunlit garden. She applied 550 Ture Gold paint and Van Gogh Yellow creating a stunning backdrop which served as the canvas for...
Category
2010s Abstract Expressionist Ynez Johnston Art
Materials
Gold
$611
H 16.54 in W 11.82 in D 0.04 in
A Sunny 1948 Modern Lake Michigan Beach Scene by Chicago Artist, Harold Haydon
By Harold Haydon
Located in Chicago, IL
A charming, colorful 1948 Mid-Century Modern beach scene by notable Chicago artist, Harold Haydon. Depicting a sunlit beach scene with bathers and sailboats painted along the sandy ...
Category
1940s American Modern Ynez Johnston Art
Materials
Paper, Oil
$850
H 16 in W 21 in D 1 in
Boy in Wonderland 2 - 21st Century, Contemporary, Figurative, Mixed Media, Men
Located in Ibadan, Oyo
Shipping Procedure
Ships in a well-protected tube.
This work is unique, not a print or other type of copy.
Accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity.
About Artist
Samson Olatubos...
Category
19th Century Modern Ynez Johnston Art
Materials
Canvas, Mixed Media, Oil, Acrylic, Photographic Paper
$1,480 Sale Price
20% Off
H 30 in W 24 in D 1 in
Signed Etching “Row Boats, Monhegan Island, Maine”
By Gretchen Dow Simpson
Located in San Francisco, CA
A study in grays, this signed and numbered etching is by celebrated artist Gretchen Dow Simpson (1939–2025), whose distinctive architectural paintings appeared on 58 of “The New York...
Category
Late 20th Century Abstract Ynez Johnston Art
Materials
Paper, Printer's Ink, Etching
Moment of Reflections 1
Located in Ibadan, Oyo
In "Moment of Reflections," Olatunbosun transports the audience into a world of contemplation and self-discovery. The centerpiece of the artwork is a young man seated in a casual, relaxed manner. His pose conveys a sense of tranquility as if he has found solace in the moments of quiet contemplation. The attention to detail in the artwork is striking, with intricate brushwork bringing out the textures of the subject's clothing and the surrounding environment.
The setting of the artwork is deliberately minimalistic, allowing the viewer to focus entirely on the young man's expression and demeanor. The background is a subtle blend of soft colors, suggesting an ethereal space where thoughts roam freely. This simplicity further accentuates the theme of reflection, as the absence of distractions allows viewers to immerse themselves in their own thoughts while contemplating the emotions conveyed by the subject.
Olatunbosun's "Moment of Reflections" is a remarkable piece that resonates deeply with viewers from all walks of life. The young man's expression exudes a sense of inner peace, prompting viewers to ponder their own life experiences and contemplate the paths they have taken. This introspective quality of the artwork creates an intimate connection between the audience and the subject, allowing for a deeply personal and emotional experience.
The painting's title, "Moment of Reflections," is deliberately chosen to reinforce the idea of taking a moment for self-exploration and soul-searching. In the hustle and bustle of modern life, we often overlook the importance of pausing and reflecting on our journey. Olatunbosun's artwork serves as a gentle reminder to find time for introspection and to appreciate the beauty in moments of quietude.
What makes "Moment of Reflections" even more extraordinary is its ability to transcend cultural boundaries. The emotions depicted in the artwork are universal, touching the core of human experiences. Whether the viewer is from the artist's homeland or halfway across the world, the profound message remains relevant – we all share moments of contemplation and self-discovery in our lives.
In conclusion, Samson Olatunbosun's "Moment of Reflections" is a timeless masterpiece that captures the human spirit with its simplicity and emotional depth. Through his brilliant artistic skill, Olatunbosun creates an atmosphere of introspection, inviting viewers to engage in their own moments of contemplation and self-discovery. This extraordinary artwork serves as a poignant reminder of the power of art to connect us all through our shared humanity and emotions. As we gaze upon the young man seated in a relaxed manner, we are reminded to embrace the beauty of silence, to reflect on our past, and to seek meaning in the present – a truly profound and impactful journey offered by the artistic genius of Samson Olatunbosun.
Shipping Procedure
Ships in a well-protected tube from Nigeria
This work is unique, not a print or other type of copy.
Accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity (Issued by the Gallery)
About Artist
Samson Olatubosun...
Category
19th Century Modern Ynez Johnston Art
Materials
Canvas, Mixed Media, Oil, Acrylic, Photographic Paper
Planetary And Scatologic Vision
By Salvador Dalí
Located in San Francisco, CA
Artist: Salvador Dali (Spanish surrealist, 1904-1989)
Title: Planetary and Scatologic Vision
Year: 1974
Medium: Engraving with embossing and color lithograph
Edition: Numbered...
Category
Late 20th Century Surrealist Ynez Johnston Art
Materials
Engraving, Lithograph
Amsterdam III ed 12/50 black-white canal house facade aquatint etch print
By Olivier Julia
Located in Doetinchem, NL
Amsterdam III is an intriguing early career aquatint dry-needle etch print by renowned French-Dutch artist Olivier Julia. It depicts a detail of an old Amsterdam house facade and is ...
Category
1980s Contemporary Ynez Johnston Art
Materials
Rag Paper, Etching, Aquatint
$534
H 9.85 in W 9.85 in
Amsterdam II ed 28/50 black-white canal house facade aquatint etch print
By Olivier Julia
Located in Doetinchem, NL
Amsterdam II is an intriguing early career aquatint dry-needle etch print by renowned French-Dutch artist Olivier Julia. It depicts a detail of an old Amsterdam house facade and is b...
Category
1980s Contemporary Ynez Johnston Art
Materials
Rag Paper, Etching, Aquatint
$535
H 9.85 in W 9.85 in
Till It All Withers 3 -21st Century, Contemporary, Figurative, Mixed Media, Men
Located in Ibadan, Oyo
Shipping Procedure
Ships in a well-protected tube.
This work is unique, not a print or other type of copy.
Accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity.
About Artist
Samson Olatubos...
Category
19th Century Modern Ynez Johnston Art
Materials
Canvas, Mixed Media, Oil, Acrylic, Photographic Paper
$1,480 Sale Price
20% Off
H 36 in W 26 in D 1 in
Trees (Trees in Circle)
By Louise Nevelson
Located in Fairlawn, OH
Trees (Trees in Circle)
Etching & drypoint with monotype inking, 1953-1955
Signed in pencil
An unrecorded trial proof, printed on heavy wove proofing paper at Atelier 17, before the ...
Category
1950s Abstract Ynez Johnston Art
Materials
Drypoint, Etching, Monotype
Study #26, 1960s Gouache painting Signed Framed Pace & Hudson Gallery provenance
By Jack Youngerman
Located in New York, NY
Jack Youngerman
Untitled Study #26, 1967
Gouache painting on paper (with original JL Hudson and PACE Gallery labels)
Hand signed and dated '67 on the front; J.L. Hudson Gallery Label on Verso.
Unique Abstract Expressionist work on paper
Frame included
Framed
Measurements:
Framed:
15 inches by 15 inches by 1.5 inch
Artwork:
7.75 inches by 7.5 inches
Provenance
From the estate of Anne Markley Spivak
J. L. Hudson Gallery Label affixed to verso (back).
The J.L. Hudson Gallery, Detroit, Michigan
This 1967 unique, signed gouache painting by renowned abstract expressionist painter Jack Youngerman was acquired from the estate of Anne Markley Spivak. It is held in the original vintage metal frame with the original J.L. Hudson Gallery label, as well as the PACE gallery label on the verso
The artwork has been newly loated and framed in a museum quality white wood frame; the original labels from the original back board have been affixed to the back to preserve provenance.
Jack Youngerman Biography
Jack Youngerman was born in St. Louis, Missouri on March 25, 1926. He moved to Louisville, Kentucky in 1929 and studied at the University of Missouri, Columbia from 1944 to 1946 under a wartime navy training program. He graduated from the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill in 1947 and, that same year, he returned to Missouri to finish his Bachelor’s degree in Journalism before moving to Paris on a G.I. scholarship.
In Paris, Youngerman enrolled at the Ecole des Beaux-Arts, studying drawing with Jean Souverbie. He explored Paris, taking in the cathedrals, museums, and history in order to grasp a greater sense of art history. He also traveled to the Netherlands, Spain, Belgium, Italy, and Greece on fine art excursions.
In 1948, Youngerman became friends with Ellsworth Kelly, Eduardo Paolozzi, and Cesar – fellow students at Ecole des Beaux-Arts. He married Delphine Seyrig in 1950, and later that year he had his first group exhibition at Galerie Maeght in Paris. He visited the studios of Constantín Brancusi and Jean Arp and became heavily influenced by the organic forms present in their work. He also met artist Alexander Calder through his father-in-law, Henri Seyrig, and experimental filmmaker and artist, Robert Breer...
Category
1960s Abstract Expressionist Ynez Johnston Art
Materials
Gouache
$15,000
H 15 in W 15 in D 1.5 in
Previously Available Items
THE COSMIC MOUNTAIN
By Ynez Johnston
Located in Portland, ME
Johnston, Ynez. THE COSMIC MOUNTAIN. Etching in colors printed from two plates, 1981. Edition of 100, numbered 64/100, titled, signed, and dated, all in pencil. 18 x 11 3/4 inches (o...
Category
1980s Abstract Ynez Johnston Art
Materials
Etching
UNTITLED
By Ynez Johnston
Located in Portland, ME
Johnston, Ynez (American, 1920-2019). UNTITLED. Color woodcut, not dated. Edition size, if any, not known. Inscriibed "Trial Proof" in the left margin, and signed in pencil in the lo...
Category
Mid-20th Century Ynez Johnston Art
Materials
Lithograph
THE TROJAN WAR
By Ynez Johnston
Located in Santa Monica, CA
YNEZ JOHNSTON (b. 1920 - )
THE TROJAN WAR c. 1954
Color etching, Signed, titled and numbered 15/35 in pencil. 12 1/2 x 17 3/4, sheet ...
Category
1950s Abstract Expressionist Ynez Johnston Art
Materials
Intaglio
THE SPANISH MAIN
By Ynez Johnston
Located in Portland, ME
Johnston, Ynez (American, born 1920). THE SPANISH MAIN. Etching and aquatint in colors, 1963. Edition of 35, signed, titled, numbered 1/35 and dated, all in pencil. Printed on laid p...
Category
1960s Ynez Johnston Art
Materials
Etching, Aquatint
Untitled
By Ynez Johnston
Located in Denver, CO
Mixed media on paper. Presented in a custom frame, outer dimensions measure 21 ¼ x 26 ¾ x ¾ inches. Image size is 13 ¼ x 19 ¼ inches.
A native of Berkeley, Johnston's artistic talent received encouragement from her family who enrolled her in Saturday classes at the California College of Arts in Oakland with excursions to the de Young Memorial Museum in San Francisco. In 1941 she received her Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from the University of California at Berkeley and the Bertha B. Taussig Memorial Award for the outstanding graduate in fine arts. Her instructors Worth Ryder, Erle Lorain and Margaret...
Category
Mid-20th Century American Modern Ynez Johnston Art
Materials
Mixed Media
THE COSMIC MOUNTAIN
By Ynez Johnston
Located in Portland, ME
Johnston, Ynez. THE COSMIC MOUNTAIN. Etching in colors printed from two plates, 1981. Edition of 100, numbered 64/100, titled, signed, and dated, all in pencil. 18 x 11 3/4 inches (o...
Category
1980s Abstract Ynez Johnston Art
Materials
Etching
THE TROJAN WAR
By Ynez Johnston
Located in Portland, ME
Johnston, Ynez. THE TROJAN WAR. Etching, aquatint in colors, not
dated. Edition of 35, numbered 1/35, and titled and signed, all in
pencil. 12 1/2 in x 17 ...
Category
Mid-20th Century American Modern Ynez Johnston Art
Materials
Etching, Aquatint
STORM at SEA
By Ynez Johnston
Located in Santa Monica, CA
YNEZ JOHNSTON (b.1920- )
STORM AT SEA c. 1955 mixed deep intaglio, signed and numbered
edition 55. 19 ¾ x 13 ¼”. Image good, color...
Category
1950s Abstract Geometric Ynez Johnston Art
Materials
Intaglio
UNTITLED
By Ynez Johnston
Located in Santa Monica, CA
YNEZ JOHNSTON (b. 1920)
UNTITLED Etching with plate tone. Signed in pencil no. 3/10? in pencil.
5 7/8 x 7 7/8. Very rare early work by Johnston, possibly as e...
Category
1950s Surrealist Ynez Johnston Art
Materials
Etching
UNTITLED
By Ynez Johnston
Located in Santa Monica, CA
YNEZ JOHNSTON (b. 1920)
UNTITLED c. 1950. Etching with plate tone. 6 7/8 x 9. Signed and
numbered in pencil 4/20. Rare early work by Johnston. $800 ...
Category
1950s Surrealist Ynez Johnston Art
Materials
Etching
Ynez Johnston art for sale on 1stDibs.
Find a wide variety of authentic Ynez Johnston art available for sale on 1stDibs. If you’re browsing the collection of art to introduce a pop of color in a neutral corner of your living room or bedroom, you can find work that includes elements of pink and other colors. You can also browse by medium to find art by Ynez Johnston in etching, paper, engraving and more. Much of the original work by this artist or collective was created during the 20th century and is mostly associated with the abstract style. Not every interior allows for large Ynez Johnston art, so small editions measuring 15 inches across are available. Customers who are interested in this artist might also find the work of Leonard Edmondson, August Mosca, and Nancy Genn. Ynez Johnston art prices can differ depending upon medium, time period and other attributes. On 1stDibs, the price for these items starts at $1,100 and tops out at $9,500, while the average work can sell for $1,800.








