The Allure of Ambiguity

I want my paintings to have mystery, to allude to the familiar while remaining wholly ambiguous. I'm not interested in supplying all the details of a specific place. I want there to be more than one interpretation.


"December Light", 18" x 24", oil on linen, Lydia Johnston


By hinting at things, I hope to trigger the viewer's imagination, I want the viewer to bring some of his own experiences and recollections to the process. This collaboration allows the viewer to connect in a profound way. It allows the viewer to sink into the scene and be transported.

"Warm Glow"

"Warm Glow", 18" x 24", oil on linen, Lydia Johnston

Bask in the warm glow of light spreading over the fields and glinting on the treetops towards the end of the day. On this rainy Saturday, I look at this painting and I can feel the sunshine.

Color in the Air

"Sky Sonata VII", 16" x 16", oil on linen, Lydia Johnston

Not the most spectacular fall colors this year, but I always love the change. It's a magical time when the air is infused with color. I soak it up before the drabness of winter sets in.


16" x 16", oil on linen

Sky Sonatas

"Sky Sonata X", 10" x 10", oil on linen, Lydia Johnston

Three new Sky Sonatas. I continue to find satisfaction painting these small pieces. I usually begin them late in the day. I hate to waste paint, and there are always small amounts of leftover mixes after finishing up a large painting.


"Sky Sonata VIII", 10" x 10", oil on linen

So I grab a 10" x 10" piece of linen, and start to play, play with different color combinations, play with different design elements. There is a freedom and joy working on these small paintings.


"Sky Sonata IX", 10" x 10", oil on linen