Bio

Peter L. Johnson is an artist whose draws on his varied background as painter, documentary photographer, solo street performance artist, and social activist to create his body of work that sees our devastating impact and abusive relationship with the waters of the Mississippi River and Minnesota River watersheds. While a BA in Economics and a MFA from the University of Minnesota shape his vision, perhaps the most important influence on his artistic journey are his daily walks out there in our embattled ecosystems, where his dog discovers places for him to make art. Peter is the founder of Seeing the Big River…thru art & service.


Artist Statement

An abandoned iced over fishing hole in the Minnesota River launched me on this journey of seeing, really seeing the Big River. I work as an artist to create community with the Big River itself, and all of us that rely on its waters for our lives. My work is created from, in, with, and by the waters of the Minnesota River and Upper Midwest Mississippi River Watersheds. I dare to see and make art within the devastating truth and beauty of our toxic relationship with the Big River. I give voice to the River when I share what I see with you. This art making is where I find my deep love of this ecosystem that feeds our bodies and spirit.