Johanne, a versatile artist with roots in Trinidad and Ireland, brings her vibrant world to canvas through expressive acrylic paintings on linen. Each piece in “A Colourful Lime” radiates positivity and peace, capturing the artist’s lifelong fascination with the natural world. The exhibition explores the theme of “Earth, Sea, and Sky,” a concept inspired by a long-forgotten sketch Johanne rediscovered while preparing for this show. These new works explore the profound emotional ties between memory, nature, and art.
Born in England to a Trinidadian father and Irish mother, Johanne was exposed to a kaleidoscope of cultures from an early age. She recalls her childhood fascination with Trinidad’s hummingbirds, the lush landscapes of Ireland, and her love of drawing that began with a gift – an engraved pencil. From these early memories to her studies in graphic design and fine art at Ealing and Croydon Colleges, Johanne’s multicultural background and education form the foundation of her unique artistic voice.
Her latest collection is a celebration of tropical beauty, with flamingos, hummingbirds, and vivid flowers taking centre stage. These colourful subjects are more than just representations of nature; they are intertwined with her personal narrative. “I felt an explosion of emotions as it stirred many memories—mainly excitement,” Johanne reflects, recalling how creating these works was a deep emotional journey.
“A Colourful Lime” is an explosion of vibrant hues and intricate detail, aiming to create spaces of tranquillity and joy on canvas. At the heart of the exhibition is “Earth, A Fountain of Youth,” a powerful piece that blends personal history with timeless beauty. Based on a sketch created in her early 20s, the work is a tribute to Johanne’s late mother, reflecting both grief and hope. “In the last conversation I had with my mother, she said, ‘You have the world at your fingertips, go and paint it.’ This painting holds those words within it.”
Every brushstroke in this collection tells a story, combining the bold, energetic movement of her tropical subjects with the delicate detailing that invites viewers to immerse themselves in the world she creates. As Johanne explains, “I want people to feel happiness, warmth, and love when they look at my work. I want them to feel enveloped in nature’s colour palette.”
After years dedicated to teaching and mentoring others, Johanne has fully returned to her passion for creating art. She is now focusing on expanding her portfolio, delving deeper into figurative work while continuing to explore the themes of nature’s beauty and human connection. In this new phase of her career, she is eager to inspire viewers with her bold use of colour and intricate compositions.
Looking ahead, Johanne says, “I am excited to return to figurative work in both imaginary and real settings, continuing to express natural beauty in full colour.”
Exhibition Details
Dates: 5th December, 6:30pm – 10pm (Open to All) Music, Drinks and Art Looking.
6th – 8th December, 11am – 5pm daily
Entry: Free
Location: Glass Pencil Art Gallery, Quayside, Ground Floor, Hayes, UB11 1AA
Book Free tickets here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/pv-of-johanne-narayns-art-exhibition-a-colourful-lime-tickets-1043792901667?aff=oddtdtcreator
