F. Eleanor Johnson (1923 - 2009)

Flora Eleanor Johnson (1923-2009) was a Canadian artist celebrated for her meticulous botanical illustrations, expressive watercolours, and evocative abstract works. Born in Hamilton, Ontario and later residing in Waterdown, Johnson's artistic journey spanned over 26 years, leaving a legacy of deeply personal and widely admired watercolour paintings.

A graduate of the Ontario College of Art, Johnson devoted much of her life to both making and teaching art. She inspired generations of students through her work as an art teacher in elementary and high schools, and later through specialized instruction at the Art Gallery of Hamilton, the Royal Botanical Gardens, the Glenhyrst Art Gallery in Brantford, the Wellington County Museum in Elora, and even on San Juan Island.

Johnson began painting in watercolour in 1979 and quickly developed a distinctive style known for its clarity, precision, and close observation. Her floral works—often inspired by Georgia O’Keeffe—earned national recognition and awards and are held in public and private collections across Canada, the United States, Great Britain, Holland, Switzerland, and Germany. In 1995, she exhibited Celebrating Nature, a collection of 30 botanical watercolours, at the Royal Botanical Gardens. Her botanical illustrations reflected both a deep reverence for nature and a connection to the Victorian tradition of women who pursued floral painting as an intellectual and creative pastime. A reviewer once wrote, “Flowers from the brush of a mature and gutsy artist like Ms. Johnson can produce spectacular personal statements in a marriage of authoritative technique and bold imagination.”

In addition to florals, Johnson explored more conceptual themes. Her 1993 exhibition, H2O…Endangered! at the Burlington Central Library and The Spectator Gallery, featured large, vivid watercolours aimed at raising awareness about environmental fragility and water conservation in Canada. These abstract works stood in contrast to her botanical precision, yet shared the same thoughtful observation and expressive energy.

In her later years, Johnson returned to themes of domestic memory and heritage. Her exhibition Stitches in Time at the Roselawn Complex showcased whimsical and playful watercolours of quilts, inspired by the utilitarian quilts made by her mother and grandmother. These works served as warm recollections of comfort and craft—folded textiles that once lay across her knees, reimagined with humour and affection.

Beyond her artistic output, Johnson was a tireless advocate for the arts in Hamilton and surrounding communities. She was a founding member of Arts Flamborough, a life member and twice president (1984–1986, 1999) of the Women’s Art Association of Hamilton, and served twice as interim director of the Hamilton and Regional Arts Council (now the Hamilton Arts Council). She was also a member of the Burlington Art Centre, Carnegie Gallery in Dundas, and Earls Court Gallery. Her professional affiliations extended nationally and internationally, including elected membership in the Society of Canadian Artists and membership in the American Society of Botanical Artists and CARFAC (Canadian Artists' Representation / Le Front des artistes canadiens).

Known for wandering with a magnifying glass in hand, Johnson’s sharp eye and curious spirit informed every aspect of her work. Whether depicting a petal, a patchwork quilt, or an abstract meditation on water, she brought insight, skill, and heart to every brushstroke.