ART ::: PAINTER :::
Lester Johnson, an influential American artist known for his contributions to the Figurative Expressionist movement, first arrived in Provincetown, Massachusetts, in 1950.
Upon arriving in Provincetown, Johnson connected with several prominent artists of the time, including Jan Müller, John Grillo, and Wolf Kahn. These connections were significant as they provided him with a supportive network of fellow artists who shared similar artistic goals and challenges.
During his time in Provincetown from 1950 to 1961, Johnson’s artistic style evolved significantly. Initially influenced by Abstract Expressionism—a dominant movement at the time—he began to shift towards a focus on the human figure. This transition was partly inspired by the vibrant community of artists around him who were also exploring figurative painting amidst a backdrop of abstraction.
In 1951, he experienced a revelation that led him to embrace Figurative Expressionism more fully. He began incorporating psychological aspects into his gestural paintings while depicting scenes from urban life. His works from this period reflect a dynamic interplay between form and color, showcasing his unique visual language that would later define his career.
A critical aspect of Johnson’s experience in Provincetown was his involvement with The Sun Gallery, which opened in 1955. This gallery became a hub for avant-garde artists looking to showcase their work outside the mainstream New York art scene. Johnson was particularly active at The Sun Gallery; he had solo exhibitions there every summer from its inception until 1959. The gallery provided him with opportunities to present his evolving style and engage with other innovative artists.
