In preparation for her solo show at Montana Trails Gallery, painter Jennifer Johnson traveled with her family to Montana from their home in Colorado—finding inspiration in the vintage log cabin they stayed in along the Bitterroot River. While there, Johnson created several pieces for the show, remaining steadfast in her passion for blending poster-like scenes with wildlife from national parks. For the show titled Timeless Icons,Johnson focuses on the “charm of Yellowstone National Park” in around 12 fresh pieces.
A New Territory, oil, 70 x 38 in.
Building on her success from previous works inspired by the 1930s era and the artist’s hand-painted typography, Johnsons adds, “I’m captivated by the look and feel of traveling through the national parks in classic cars, which were like rolling works of art themselves. Stories from family and friends about their adventures in Yellowstone, especially the amusing tale of my grandmother wanting to feed lollipops to the bears, sparked my imagination. This exhibition gave me the perfect opportunity to add a touch of whimsy and humor into some of my pieces.”
Slopes of Nostalgia—Big Sky 1973, oil, 40 x 30 in.
Johnson is also driven by a deep passion for wildlife, landscapes, the environment, nostalgia and, occasionally, “a touch of neon,” she says. We see this in show pieces like Icons of the West, showing the neon signage for the Million Dollar Cowboy Bar in Jackson Hole, with a backdrop of mountains. “Two of my favorite subjects to paint are the iconic symbols of the American West: The Million Dollar Cowboy Bar and the majestic Grand Tetons,” Johnson says.
Over the years, the artist has enjoyed significant success painting these landmarks. She shares, “I have been asked and I always say the same thing: ‘Jennifer, now you know you can’t see the Tetons behind the Cowboy Bar…’ I just smile and say, ‘Well, I sure know that, but I just love to move mountains!’ If you ever visit the actual Million Dollar Cowboy Bar, you’ll find the very first version of this concept hanging in their permanent collection at the back of the bar.”
Natures Neon, oil, 48 x 36 in.
Showcasing her love for wildlife is piece A New Territory of a bear standing on its hind legs. “I sought to capture the majestic presence of a nearly life-size grizzly bear in its powerful, natural setting within the greater Yellowstone ecosystem,” Johnson shares. “The inspiration came to me during a backpacking trip with my sons, where we encountered this breathtaking scene—without the bear (but a perfect spot for one).”
She continues, “This painting holds a special significance, as it celebrates the remarkable recovery of the Yellowstone grizzly population. In the 1970s, these magnificent creatures were on the brink of extinction. Today, thanks to the Endangered Species Act with dedicated wildlife experts and public support, their numbers have rebounded. For a whimsical touch, I included a little chipmunk, who symbolizes prosperity and protection. This playful addition not only adds contrast but also evokes fond memories of our adventure.”
Icons of the West, oil, 40 x 30 in.
With this new series, Johnson aims to conjure nostalgic memories for all, and encourages others to share their own travel stories. Share in the delight of these natural beauties and iconic scenes, while enjoying new elements to Johnson’s work like classic cars and figures. Visit Montana Trails Gallery in Bozeman, Montana, for the show starting with an opening reception on August 8 from 5:30 to 8 p.m., and closing September 8. —
Montana Tails Gallery 7 W. Main Street, #102 » Bozeman, MT 59715 » (406) 586-2166 » www.montanatrails.com
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