Johanna Paas is a Michigan-based artist who creates two-dimensional works inspired by the shapes, patterns, and textures found in nature. Her imagery often begins with ordinary objects (fallen seedpods, broken twigs, or piles of rocks), and through a process of careful collection, observation, and attention, these textures, colors, and surfaces take on deeper meaning and significance. Balancing intent and intuition, Paas allows forms to overlap and merge, creating compositions in which multiple distinct elements coexist in harmony.
Paas received her BFA from the University of Michigan and her MFA from Louisiana State University. Her work has been exhibited at the Marin Museum of Contemporary Art (Novato, CA), the Attleboro Arts Museum (Attleboro, MA), and the Center for Contemporary Arts (Abilene, TX), among others. She has also participated in residencies at Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts (TN) and Can Serrat (Spain).
Johanna Paas is a Professor of Art at Central Michigan University, where she teaches printmaking and contributes to the vibrant studio art program. In 2025, she received a Central Michigan University Teaching Excellence Award. She looks forward to the gift of time offered by the Prairie Ronde residency, as well as the opportunity to expand her creative practice through sustained engagement with The Mill.
Website: johannapaas.com
