JOHNSON, Keith

1931 - 2012

Keith Arthur Johnson was born at South Pickenham, Swaffham, Norfolk in 1931, son of James Arthur Johnson (9 February 1895-21 March 1982), a farmer, and his wife Florence May née Wiles (9 May 1900-1996), who married at St Mary's Church, Middleton, Norfolk in October 1927 and in 1939 were living at Manor Farm, Tottenhill, Downham, Norfolk. Keith painted from an early age and after attending Fakenham Grammar School, he attended Norwich School of Art from 1946, where apart from general studies, he specialised in fabric design which heightened his colour awareness and composition sense. His studies were interrupted by National Service in the RAF after which studied for teacher training at Liverpool School of Art obtaining a National Diploma in Design and an Art Teachers Diploma, also studying various printing methods and Art History attached to Liverpool University. Keith returned to Norwich School of Art for more studies, including life classes and portrait painting and from 1951 went to Lowestoft School of Arts and Crafts in Suffolk to lecture in Design classes and teach fabric design, including weaving. Whilst at Lowestoft he met fellow lecturers, Tom Hudson (1922-1997), Jeffery Camp, Victor Pasmore (1908-1998) and other visiting artists. He also taught at other secondary schools followed by teacher exchange in Canada, returning to teach in Norwich. Keith worked in both oils and watercolour and, although best known locally for his topographical watercolours, has always had a keen interest in more formal oil studies. A long-time member and exhibitor at the Norfolk & Norwich Art Circle from 1966 from Framingham Earl and Sprowston, Norfolk, his work has been exhibited in the national shows in London and at the Royal Academy also showing at the Royal Institute of Painters in Water Colours; Royal Society of British Artists; Royal Institute of Oil Painters; New English Art Club and elsewhere. He married in 1960, Pauline Hurrell and they ran a successful greetings card and prints business which they sold, when Keith returned full time painting. Keith Arthur Johnson died on 20 April 2012.

Royal Academy Exhibits
from 50 Queensborough Road, Norwich
1982 420 Rackheath Church

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Works by This Artist