Joni T. Johnson Sold at Auction Prices

b. 1934 - d. 1988

See Artist Details

0 Lots

Sort By:

Categories

Auction Date

Seller

Seller Location

Price Range

to
  • Joni T. Johnson, Indiana (1934-1988), "mosaic pieces" figural group, 1978, watercolor on paper, 23 1/4"H x 19 1/4"W (sight) 30 3/4"H x 26 3/8"W (frame)
    Sep. 09, 2026

    Joni T. Johnson, Indiana (1934-1988), "mosaic pieces" figural group, 1978, watercolor on paper, 23 1/4"H x 19 1/4"W (sight) 30 3/4"H x 26 3/8"W (frame)

    Est: -

    Joni T. Johnson Indiana, (1934-1988) "mosaic pieces" figural group, 1978 watercolor on paper signed and dated lower right. The following was submitted as a bulletin by Nelson Begley. Watercolor artist, Joni T. Johnson was a native of Swayzee, Indiana. She went to high school in Indianapolis and attended the Herron Art School. Two of her paintings are in the White House East Room. Her works have hung in 27 countries and owned by such notables as Katherine Hepburn, Harry Belafonte and Lana Turner. --------------------------------------------------------------------- The following, submitted January 2005, is from Gerald A. Notaro, University Librarian, University of South Florida St. Petersburg. His source is the artist, who was his close friend from 1983 until her death. Of her work, he wrote: "Her wispy watercolors of round-eyed children and sad faced Victorian girls, sometimes decorated with poems and splatters, brought untold pleasure to the large number of people who collected them, including Harry Belafonte, Joel Grey and Vincent Price who trooped through Indianapolis at one time or another with theatrical ventures." Born Joan T. Johnson in Swayzee, Indiana, she attended Tech High School and the old John Herron Art Institute. She was a founder of the Talbott Street Art Fair, which still attracts thousands annually. She was married for a short time to Merle Griggs. But nobody knew her by that name. She always signed her paintings J.T. Johnson. She had one son, Merle Griggs, Jr. In the 1950's she had a studio upstairs at the southwest corner of Alabama and 16th Streets that she called Belle Reve, after Blanche Dubois' lost plantation in Tennessee Williams' `A Streetcar Named Desire.' She also lived and worked in Chicago for a time and studied with Charles E. Burchfield. Joan was 54 years old at the time of her death in June of 1988. Much of this information was placed in the Congressional Record on Tuesday, March 21, 1989, by Congressman Andrew Jacobs, who was also a close friend of Joni's.

    Ripley Auctions
  • Joni T. Johnson (Indiana, 1934-1988) two female portrait prints and Bettie Hebert-Felder (Texas, b. 1940) Thru God's Grace / Tea for Two print, 12"H x 12"W (Sight), 17 1/2"H x 17 1/2"W (Frame) (bottom right)
    Jun. 10, 2026

    Joni T. Johnson (Indiana, 1934-1988) two female portrait prints and Bettie Hebert-Felder (Texas, b. 1940) Thru God's Grace / Tea for Two print, 12"H x 12"W (Sight), 17 1/2"H x 17 1/2"W (Frame) (bottom right)

    Est: -

    Joni T. Johnson (Indiana, 1934-1988) two female portrait prints and Bettie Hebert-Felder (Texas, b. 1940) Thru God's Grace / Tea for Two print

    Ripley Auctions
  • Joni T. Johnson (American, 1934-1988), 'Figures in a Blue Field,' Watercolor on Paper
    Jun. 02, 2026

    Joni T. Johnson (American, 1934-1988), 'Figures in a Blue Field,' Watercolor on Paper

    Est: $50 - $250

    Joni T. Johnson (American, 1934-1988), 'Figures in a Blue Field,' Watercolor on Paper Late 20th Century, USA Dreamlike figural composition of a group of people in grief, rendered in vivid blue tones with expressive linework and floral elements.

    Akiba Galleries
  • Joni T. Johnson, American (1934-1988), abstract portrait of a woman with a basket of flowers, watercolor, 16 1/2"H x 13 1/4"W(paper), 23 1/2"H x 20 3/4"W(Frame)
    May. 13, 2026

    Joni T. Johnson, American (1934-1988), abstract portrait of a woman with a basket of flowers, watercolor, 16 1/2"H x 13 1/4"W(paper), 23 1/2"H x 20 3/4"W(Frame)

    Est: $140 - $200

    Joni T. Johnson American, (1934-1988) abstract portrait of a woman with a basket of flowers watercolor Signed to lower left. Biography from the Archives of askART The following was submitted as a bulletin by Nelson Begley. Watercolor artist, Joni T. Johnson was a native of Swayzee, Indiana. She went to high school in Indianapolis and attended the Herron Art School. Two of her paintings are in the White House East Room. Her works have hung in 27 countries and owned by such notables as Katherine Hepburn, Harry Belafonte and Lana Turner. --------------------------------------------------------------------- The following, submitted January 2005, is from Gerald A. Notaro, University Librarian, University of South Florida St. Petersburg. His source is the artist, who was his close friend from 1983 until her death. Of her work, he wrote: "Her wispy watercolors of round-eyed children and sad faced Victorian girls, sometimes decorated with poems and splatters, brought untold pleasure to the large number of people who collected them, including Harry Belafonte, Joel Grey and Vincent Price who trooped through Indianapolis at one time or another with theatrical ventures." Born Joan T. Johnson in Swayzee, Indiana, she attended Tech High School and the old John Herron Art Institute. She was a founder of the Talbott Street Art Fair, which still attracts thousands annually. She was married for a short time to Merle Griggs. But nobody knew her by that name. She always signed her paintings J.T. Johnson. She had one son, Merle Griggs, Jr. In the 1950's she had a studio upstairs at the southwest corner of Alabama and 16th Streets that she called Belle Reve, after Blanche Dubois' lost plantation in Tennessee Williams' `A Streetcar Named Desire.' She also lived and worked in Chicago for a time and studied with Charles E. Burchfield. Joan was 54 years old at the time of her death in June of 1988. Much of this information was placed in the Congressional Record on Tuesday, March 21, 1989, by Congressman Andrew Jacobs, who was also a close friend of Joni's.

    Ripley Auctions
  • Joni T. Johnson, American (1934-1988), portrait of a young woman, bride?, watercolor and ink, 27 1/2"H x 19 1/2"W(sight), 38"H x 29 1/2"W(frame)
    May. 13, 2026

    Joni T. Johnson, American (1934-1988), portrait of a young woman, bride?, watercolor and ink, 27 1/2"H x 19 1/2"W(sight), 38"H x 29 1/2"W(frame)

    Est: $140 - $200

    Joni T. Johnson American, (1934-1988) portrait of a young woman, bride? watercolor and ink Signed to middle left. Biography from the Archives of askART The following was submitted as a bulletin by Nelson Begley. Watercolor artist, Joni T. Johnson was a native of Swayzee, Indiana. She went to high school in Indianapolis and attended the Herron Art School. Two of her paintings are in the White House East Room. Her works have hung in 27 countries and owned by such notables as Katherine Hepburn, Harry Belafonte and Lana Turner. --------------------------------------------------------------------- The following, submitted January 2005, is from Gerald A. Notaro, University Librarian, University of South Florida St. Petersburg. His source is the artist, who was his close friend from 1983 until her death. Of her work, he wrote: "Her wispy watercolors of round-eyed children and sad faced Victorian girls, sometimes decorated with poems and splatters, brought untold pleasure to the large number of people who collected them, including Harry Belafonte, Joel Grey and Vincent Price who trooped through Indianapolis at one time or another with theatrical ventures." Born Joan T. Johnson in Swayzee, Indiana, she attended Tech High School and the old John Herron Art Institute. She was a founder of the Talbott Street Art Fair, which still attracts thousands annually. She was married for a short time to Merle Griggs. But nobody knew her by that name. She always signed her paintings J.T. Johnson. She had one son, Merle Griggs, Jr. In the 1950's she had a studio upstairs at the southwest corner of Alabama and 16th Streets that she called Belle Reve, after Blanche Dubois' lost plantation in Tennessee Williams' `A Streetcar Named Desire.' She also lived and worked in Chicago for a time and studied with Charles E. Burchfield. Joan was 54 years old at the time of her death in June of 1988. Much of this information was placed in the Congressional Record on Tuesday, March 21, 1989, by Congressman Andrew Jacobs, who was also a close friend of Joni's.

    Ripley Auctions
  • Joni T. Johnson, American (1934-1988), green boy with apples, 1966, watercolor, 27"H x 19 1/2"W(sight), 40"H x 32 1/2"W(frame)
    May. 13, 2026

    Joni T. Johnson, American (1934-1988), green boy with apples, 1966, watercolor, 27"H x 19 1/2"W(sight), 40"H x 32 1/2"W(frame)

    Est: $140 - $200

    Joni T. Johnson American, (1934-1988) green boy with apples, 1966 watercolor Signed and dated mid left side. Biography from the Archives of askART: The following was submitted as a bulletin by Nelson Begley. Watercolor artist, Joni T. Johnson was a native of Swayzee, Indiana. She went to high school in Indianapolis and attended the Herron Art School. Two of her paintings are in the White House East Room. Her works have hung in 27 countries and owned by such notables as Katherine Hepburn, Harry Belafonte and Lana Turner.

    Ripley Auctions
  • Joni T. Johnson, American (1934-1988), figural wedding? portrait, 1966, watercolor, 27 1/2"H x 19"W(sight), 37 3/4"H x 28 3/4"W(frame)
    May. 13, 2026

    Joni T. Johnson, American (1934-1988), figural wedding? portrait, 1966, watercolor, 27 1/2"H x 19"W(sight), 37 3/4"H x 28 3/4"W(frame)

    Est: $140 - $200

    Joni T. Johnson American, (1934-1988) figural wedding? portrait, 1966 watercolor Signed and dated to lower right. Biography from the Archives of askART The following was submitted as a bulletin by Nelson Begley. Watercolor artist, Joni T. Johnson was a native of Swayzee, Indiana. She went to high school in Indianapolis and attended the Herron Art School. Two of her paintings are in the White House East Room. Her works have hung in 27 countries and owned by such notables as Katherine Hepburn, Harry Belafonte and Lana Turner. --------------------------------------------------------------------- The following, submitted January 2005, is from Gerald A. Notaro, University Librarian, University of South Florida St. Petersburg. His source is the artist, who was his close friend from 1983 until her death. Of her work, he wrote: "Her wispy watercolors of round-eyed children and sad faced Victorian girls, sometimes decorated with poems and splatters, brought untold pleasure to the large number of people who collected them, including Harry Belafonte, Joel Grey and Vincent Price who trooped through Indianapolis at one time or another with theatrical ventures." Born Joan T. Johnson in Swayzee, Indiana, she attended Tech High School and the old John Herron Art Institute. She was a founder of the Talbott Street Art Fair, which still attracts thousands annually. She was married for a short time to Merle Griggs. But nobody knew her by that name. She always signed her paintings J.T. Johnson. She had one son, Merle Griggs, Jr. In the 1950's she had a studio upstairs at the southwest corner of Alabama and 16th Streets that she called Belle Reve, after Blanche Dubois' lost plantation in Tennessee Williams' `A Streetcar Named Desire.' She also lived and worked in Chicago for a time and studied with Charles E. Burchfield. Joan was 54 years old at the time of her death in June of 1988. Much of this information was placed in the Congressional Record on Tuesday, March 21, 1989, by Congressman Andrew Jacobs, who was also a close friend of Joni's.

    Ripley Auctions
  • Joni T. Johnson, American (1934-1988), "The Day We Fell in Love", watercolor on paper, 19"H x 24"W(sight), 28 1/2"H x 33"W(frame)
    May. 13, 2026

    Joni T. Johnson, American (1934-1988), "The Day We Fell in Love", watercolor on paper, 19"H x 24"W(sight), 28 1/2"H x 33"W(frame)

    Est: $140 - $200

    Joni T. Johnson American, (1934-1988) "The Day We Fell in Love" watercolor on paper Signed and titled to lower left. Biography from the Archives of askART The following was submitted as a bulletin by Nelson Begley. Watercolor artist, Joni T. Johnson was a native of Swayzee, Indiana. She went to high school in Indianapolis and attended the Herron Art School. Two of her paintings are in the White House East Room. Her works have hung in 27 countries and owned by such notables as Katherine Hepburn, Harry Belafonte and Lana Turner. --------------------------------------------------------------------- The following, submitted January 2005, is from Gerald A. Notaro, University Librarian, University of South Florida St. Petersburg. His source is the artist, who was his close friend from 1983 until her death. Of her work, he wrote: "Her wispy watercolors of round-eyed children and sad faced Victorian girls, sometimes decorated with poems and splatters, brought untold pleasure to the large number of people who collected them, including Harry Belafonte, Joel Grey and Vincent Price who trooped through Indianapolis at one time or another with theatrical ventures." Born Joan T. Johnson in Swayzee, Indiana, she attended Tech High School and the old John Herron Art Institute. She was a founder of the Talbott Street Art Fair, which still attracts thousands annually. She was married for a short time to Merle Griggs. But nobody knew her by that name. She always signed her paintings J.T. Johnson. She had one son, Merle Griggs, Jr. In the 1950's she had a studio upstairs at the southwest corner of Alabama and 16th Streets that she called Belle Reve, after Blanche Dubois' lost plantation in Tennessee Williams' `A Streetcar Named Desire.' She also lived and worked in Chicago for a time and studied with Charles E. Burchfield. Joan was 54 years old at the time of her death in June of 1988. Much of this information was placed in the Congressional Record on Tuesday, March 21, 1989, by Congressman Andrew Jacobs, who was also a close friend of Joni's.

    Ripley Auctions
  • Joni T. Johnson, American (1934-1988), figures in a blue field, 1980, watercolor on paper, 18 3/4"H x 23"W(sight), 25 1/4"H x 29 1/4"W(frame)
    May. 13, 2026

    Joni T. Johnson, American (1934-1988), figures in a blue field, 1980, watercolor on paper, 18 3/4"H x 23"W(sight), 25 1/4"H x 29 1/4"W(frame)

    Est: $140 - $200

    Joni T. Johnson American, (1934-1988) figures in a blue field, 1980 watercolor on paper Signed and dated to lower left. Biography from the Archives of askART: The following was submitted as a bulletin by Nelson Begley. Watercolor artist, Joni T. Johnson was a native of Swayzee, Indiana. She went to high school in Indianapolis and attended the Herron Art School. Two of her paintings are in the White House East Room. Her works have hung in 27 countries and owned by such notables as Katherine Hepburn, Harry Belafonte and Lana Turner. --------------------------------------------------------------------- The following, submitted January 2005, is from Gerald A. Notaro, University Librarian, University of South Florida St. Petersburg. His source is the artist, who was his close friend from 1983 until her death. Of her work, he wrote: "Her wispy watercolors of round-eyed children and sad faced Victorian girls, sometimes decorated with poems and splatters, brought untold pleasure to the large number of people who collected them, including Harry Belafonte, Joel Grey and Vincent Price who trooped through Indianapolis at one time or another with theatrical ventures." Born Joan T. Johnson in Swayzee, Indiana, she attended Tech High School and the old John Herron Art Institute. She was a founder of the Talbott Street Art Fair, which still attracts thousands annually. She was married for a short time to Merle Griggs. But nobody knew her by that name. She always signed her paintings J.T. Johnson. She had one son, Merle Griggs, Jr. In the 1950's she had a studio upstairs at the southwest corner of Alabama and 16th Streets that she called Belle Reve, after Blanche Dubois' lost plantation in Tennessee Williams' `A Streetcar Named Desire.' She also lived and worked in Chicago for a time and studied with Charles E. Burchfield. Joan was 54 years old at the time of her death in June of 1988. Much of this information was placed in the Congressional Record on Tuesday, March 21, 1989, by Congressman Andrew Jacobs, who was also a close friend of Joni's.

    Ripley Auctions
  • Joni T. Johnson, Indiana (1934-1988), mother and son, 1976, watercolor on paper, 24"H x 19"W (Sight), 31 3/4"H x 26 3/4"W (Frame)
    Jan. 07, 2026

    Joni T. Johnson, Indiana (1934-1988), mother and son, 1976, watercolor on paper, 24"H x 19"W (Sight), 31 3/4"H x 26 3/4"W (Frame)

    Est: $140 - $250

    Joni T. Johnson Indiana, (1934-1988) mother and son, 1976 watercolor on paper Signed and dated center left. The following was submitted as a bulletin by Nelson Begley. Watercolor artist, Joni T. Johnson was a native of Swayzee, Indiana. She went to high school in Indianapolis and attended the Herron Art School. Two of her paintings are in the White House East Room. Her works have hung in 27 countries and owned by such notables as Katherine Hepburn, Harry Belafonte and Lana Turner. --------------------------------------------------------------------- The following, submitted January 2005, is from Gerald A. Notaro, University Librarian, University of South Florida St. Petersburg. His source is the artist, who was his close friend from 1983 until her death. Of her work, he wrote: "Her wispy watercolors of round-eyed children and sad faced Victorian girls, sometimes decorated with poems and splatters, brought untold pleasure to the large number of people who collected them, including Harry Belafonte, Joel Grey and Vincent Price who trooped through Indianapolis at one time or another with theatrical ventures." Born Joan T. Johnson in Swayzee, Indiana, she attended Tech High School and the old John Herron Art Institute. She was a founder of the Talbott Street Art Fair, which still attracts thousands annually. She was married for a short time to Merle Griggs. But nobody knew her by that name. She always signed her paintings J.T. Johnson. She had one son, Merle Griggs, Jr. In the 1950's she had a studio upstairs at the southwest corner of Alabama and 16th Streets that she called Belle Reve, after Blanche Dubois' lost plantation in Tennessee Williams' `A Streetcar Named Desire.' She also lived and worked in Chicago for a time and studied with Charles E. Burchfield. Joan was 54 years old at the time of her death in June of 1988. Much of this information was placed in the Congressional Record on Tuesday, March 21, 1989, by Congressman Andrew Jacobs, who was also a close friend of Joni's.

    Ripley Auctions
  • Joni T. Johnson, Indiana (1934-1988), mother holding daughter, 1981, watercolor on paper, 22 3/4"H x 18 3/4"W (Sight), 30 1/4"H x 26 1/4"W (Frame)
    Jan. 07, 2026

    Joni T. Johnson, Indiana (1934-1988), mother holding daughter, 1981, watercolor on paper, 22 3/4"H x 18 3/4"W (Sight), 30 1/4"H x 26 1/4"W (Frame)

    Est: $140 - $200

    Joni T. Johnson Indiana, (1934-1988) mother holding daughter, 1981 watercolor on paper Signed and dated lower left. The following was submitted as a bulletin by Nelson Begley. Watercolor artist, Joni T. Johnson was a native of Swayzee, Indiana. She went to high school in Indianapolis and attended the Herron Art School. Two of her paintings are in the White House East Room. Her works have hung in 27 countries and owned by such notables as Katherine Hepburn, Harry Belafonte and Lana Turner. --------------------------------------------------------------------- The following, submitted January 2005, is from Gerald A. Notaro, University Librarian, University of South Florida St. Petersburg. His source is the artist, who was his close friend from 1983 until her death. Of her work, he wrote: "Her wispy watercolors of round-eyed children and sad faced Victorian girls, sometimes decorated with poems and splatters, brought untold pleasure to the large number of people who collected them, including Harry Belafonte, Joel Grey and Vincent Price who trooped through Indianapolis at one time or another with theatrical ventures." Born Joan T. Johnson in Swayzee, Indiana, she attended Tech High School and the old John Herron Art Institute. She was a founder of the Talbott Street Art Fair, which still attracts thousands annually. She was married for a short time to Merle Griggs. But nobody knew her by that name. She always signed her paintings J.T. Johnson. She had one son, Merle Griggs, Jr. In the 1950's she had a studio upstairs at the southwest corner of Alabama and 16th Streets that she called Belle Reve, after Blanche Dubois' lost plantation in Tennessee Williams' `A Streetcar Named Desire.' She also lived and worked in Chicago for a time and studied with Charles E. Burchfield. Joan was 54 years old at the time of her death in June of 1988. Much of this information was placed in the Congressional Record on Tuesday, March 21, 1989, by Congressman Andrew Jacobs, who was also a close friend of Joni's.

    Ripley Auctions
  • Joni T. Johnson, Indiana (1934-1988), female portrait, 1970, watercolor on paper, 23 3/4"H x 15"W(sight)
    Jan. 07, 2026

    Joni T. Johnson, Indiana (1934-1988), female portrait, 1970, watercolor on paper, 23 3/4"H x 15"W(sight)

    Est: $140 - $200

    Joni T. Johnson Indiana, (1934-1988) female portrait, 1970 watercolor on paper Signed and dated lower left. The following was submitted as a bulletin by Nelson Begley. Watercolor artist, Joni T. Johnson was a native of Swayzee, Indiana. She went to high school in Indianapolis and attended the Herron Art School. Two of her paintings are in the White House East Room. Her works have hung in 27 countries and owned by such notables as Katherine Hepburn, Harry Belafonte and Lana Turner. --------------------------------------------------------------------- The following, submitted January 2005, is from Gerald A. Notaro, University Librarian, University of South Florida St. Petersburg. His source is the artist, who was his close friend from 1983 until her death. Of her work, he wrote: "Her wispy watercolors of round-eyed children and sad faced Victorian girls, sometimes decorated with poems and splatters, brought untold pleasure to the large number of people who collected them, including Harry Belafonte, Joel Grey and Vincent Price who trooped through Indianapolis at one time or another with theatrical ventures." Born Joan T. Johnson in Swayzee, Indiana, she attended Tech High School and the old John Herron Art Institute. She was a founder of the Talbott Street Art Fair, which still attracts thousands annually. She was married for a short time to Merle Griggs. But nobody knew her by that name. She always signed her paintings J.T. Johnson. She had one son, Merle Griggs, Jr. In the 1950's she had a studio upstairs at the southwest corner of Alabama and 16th Streets that she called Belle Reve, after Blanche Dubois' lost plantation in Tennessee Williams' `A Streetcar Named Desire.' She also lived and worked in Chicago for a time and studied with Charles E. Burchfield. Joan was 54 years old at the time of her death in June of 1988. Much of this information was placed in the Congressional Record on Tuesday, March 21, 1989, by Congressman Andrew Jacobs, who was also a close friend of Joni's.

    Ripley Auctions
  • Joni Johnson (1934-1988)
    Nov. 01, 2025

    Joni Johnson (1934-1988)

    Est: $500 - $1,000

    Flower Child with Orb 29" x 22" oil on canvas, signed lower right, dated 1971.

    Jacksons Auction & Real Estate Company
  • Joni T. Johnson, Indiana (1934-1988), Hofmeister's Gym, 1979, watercolor on paper, 20 1/2"H x 24 1/2"W (sheet)
    Oct. 29, 2025

    Joni T. Johnson, Indiana (1934-1988), Hofmeister's Gym, 1979, watercolor on paper, 20 1/2"H x 24 1/2"W (sheet)

    Est: $200 - $300

    Joni T. Johnson Indiana, (1934-1988) Hofmeister's Gym, 1979 watercolor on paper Signed and dated lower left. The following was submitted as a bulletin by Nelson Begley. Watercolor artist, Joni T. Johnson was a native of Swayzee, Indiana. She went to high school in Indianapolis and attended the Herron Art School. Two of her paintings are in the White House East Room. Her works have hung in 27 countries and owned by such notables as Katherine Hepburn, Harry Belafonte and Lana Turner. --------------------------------------------------------------------- The following, submitted January 2005, is from Gerald A. Notaro, University Librarian, University of South Florida St. Petersburg. His source is the artist, who was his close friend from 1983 until her death. Of her work, he wrote: "Her wispy watercolors of round-eyed children and sad faced Victorian girls, sometimes decorated with poems and splatters, brought untold pleasure to the large number of people who collected them, including Harry Belafonte, Joel Grey and Vincent Price who trooped through Indianapolis at one time or another with theatrical ventures." Born Joan T. Johnson in Swayzee, Indiana, she attended Tech High School and the old John Herron Art Institute. She was a founder of the Talbott Street Art Fair, which still attracts thousands annually. She was married for a short time to Merle Griggs. But nobody knew her by that name. She always signed her paintings J.T. Johnson. She had one son, Merle Griggs, Jr. In the 1950's she had a studio upstairs at the southwest corner of Alabama and 16th Streets that she called Belle Reve, after Blanche Dubois' lost plantation in Tennessee Williams' `A Streetcar Named Desire.' She also lived and worked in Chicago for a time and studied with Charles E. Burchfield. Joan was 54 years old at the time of her death in June of 1988. Much of this information was placed in the Congressional Record on Tuesday, March 21, 1989, by Congressman Andrew Jacobs, who was also a close friend of Joni's.

    Ripley Auctions
  • Joni T. Johnson, Indiana (1934-1988), watercolor on paper, 12"H x 10"W(sight), 22 1/4"H x 18 1/4"W(frame)
    Jan. 25, 2025

    Joni T. Johnson, Indiana (1934-1988), watercolor on paper, 12"H x 10"W(sight), 22 1/4"H x 18 1/4"W(frame)

    Est: $140 - $250

    Joni T. Johnson Indiana, (1934-1988) watercolor on paper Biography from the Archives of askART: The following was submitted as a bulletin by Nelson Begley. Watercolor artist, Joni T. Johnson was a native of Swayzee, Indiana. She went to high school in Indianapolis and attended the Herron Art School. Two of her paintings are in the White House East Room. Her works have hung in 27 countries and owned by such notables as Katherine Hepburn, Harry Belafonte and Lana Turner. --------------------------------------------------------------------- The following, submitted January 2005, is from Gerald A. Notaro, University Librarian, University of South Florida St. Petersburg. His source is the artist, who was his close friend from 1983 until her death. Of her work, he wrote: "Her wispy watercolors of round-eyed children and sad faced Victorian girls, sometimes decorated with poems and splatters, brought untold pleasure to the large number of people who collected them, including Harry Belafonte, Joel Grey and Vincent Price who trooped through Indianapolis at one time or another with theatrical ventures." Born Joan T. Johnson in Swayzee, Indiana, she attended Tech High School and the old John Herron Art Institute. She was a founder of the Talbott Street Art Fair, which still attracts thousands annually. She was married for a short time to Merle Griggs. But nobody knew her by that name. She always signed her paintings J.T. Johnson. She had one son, Merle Griggs, Jr. In the 1950's she had a studio upstairs at the southwest corner of Alabama and 16th Streets that she called Belle Reve, after Blanche Dubois' lost plantation in Tennessee Williams' `A Streetcar Named Desire.' She also lived and worked in Chicago for a time and studied with Charles E. Burchfield. Joan was 54 years old at the time of her death in June of 1988. Much of this information was placed in the Congressional Record on Tuesday, March 21, 1989, by Congressman Andrew Jacobs, who was also a close friend of Joni's.

    Ripley Auctions
  • Joni T. Johnson, Indiana (1934-1988), watercolor on paper, 27"H x 19 1/2"W(sight), 37 1/4"H x 29"W(frame)
    Jan. 25, 2025

    Joni T. Johnson, Indiana (1934-1988), watercolor on paper, 27"H x 19 1/2"W(sight), 37 1/4"H x 29"W(frame)

    Est: $200 - $300

    Joni T. Johnson Indiana, (1934-1988) watercolor on paper Biography from the Archives of askART: The following was submitted as a bulletin by Nelson Begley. Watercolor artist, Joni T. Johnson was a native of Swayzee, Indiana. She went to high school in Indianapolis and attended the Herron Art School. Two of her paintings are in the White House East Room. Her works have hung in 27 countries and owned by such notables as Katherine Hepburn, Harry Belafonte and Lana Turner. --------------------------------------------------------------------- The following, submitted January 2005, is from Gerald A. Notaro, University Librarian, University of South Florida St. Petersburg. His source is the artist, who was his close friend from 1983 until her death. Of her work, he wrote: "Her wispy watercolors of round-eyed children and sad faced Victorian girls, sometimes decorated with poems and splatters, brought untold pleasure to the large number of people who collected them, including Harry Belafonte, Joel Grey and Vincent Price who trooped through Indianapolis at one time or another with theatrical ventures." Born Joan T. Johnson in Swayzee, Indiana, she attended Tech High School and the old John Herron Art Institute. She was a founder of the Talbott Street Art Fair, which still attracts thousands annually. She was married for a short time to Merle Griggs. But nobody knew her by that name. She always signed her paintings J.T. Johnson. She had one son, Merle Griggs, Jr. In the 1950's she had a studio upstairs at the southwest corner of Alabama and 16th Streets that she called Belle Reve, after Blanche Dubois' lost plantation in Tennessee Williams' `A Streetcar Named Desire.' She also lived and worked in Chicago for a time and studied with Charles E. Burchfield. Joan was 54 years old at the time of her death in June of 1988. Much of this information was placed in the Congressional Record on Tuesday, March 21, 1989, by Congressman Andrew Jacobs, who was also a close friend of Joni's.

    Ripley Auctions
  • Joni T. Johnson, Indiana (1934-1988), watercolor on paper, 23 1/4"H x 15 1/2"W(sight), 34 1/4"H x 26 1/4"W(frame)
    Jan. 25, 2025

    Joni T. Johnson, Indiana (1934-1988), watercolor on paper, 23 1/4"H x 15 1/2"W(sight), 34 1/4"H x 26 1/4"W(frame)

    Est: $140 - $250

    Joni T. Johnson Indiana, (1934-1988) watercolor on paper Biography from the Archives of askART: The following was submitted as a bulletin by Nelson Begley. Watercolor artist, Joni T. Johnson was a native of Swayzee, Indiana. She went to high school in Indianapolis and attended the Herron Art School. Two of her paintings are in the White House East Room. Her works have hung in 27 countries and owned by such notables as Katherine Hepburn, Harry Belafonte and Lana Turner. --------------------------------------------------------------------- The following, submitted January 2005, is from Gerald A. Notaro, University Librarian, University of South Florida St. Petersburg. His source is the artist, who was his close friend from 1983 until her death. Of her work, he wrote: "Her wispy watercolors of round-eyed children and sad faced Victorian girls, sometimes decorated with poems and splatters, brought untold pleasure to the large number of people who collected them, including Harry Belafonte, Joel Grey and Vincent Price who trooped through Indianapolis at one time or another with theatrical ventures." Born Joan T. Johnson in Swayzee, Indiana, she attended Tech High School and the old John Herron Art Institute. She was a founder of the Talbott Street Art Fair, which still attracts thousands annually. She was married for a short time to Merle Griggs. But nobody knew her by that name. She always signed her paintings J.T. Johnson. She had one son, Merle Griggs, Jr. In the 1950's she had a studio upstairs at the southwest corner of Alabama and 16th Streets that she called Belle Reve, after Blanche Dubois' lost plantation in Tennessee Williams' `A Streetcar Named Desire.' She also lived and worked in Chicago for a time and studied with Charles E. Burchfield. Joan was 54 years old at the time of her death in June of 1988. Much of this information was placed in the Congressional Record on Tuesday, March 21, 1989, by Congressman Andrew Jacobs, who was also a close friend of Joni's.

    Ripley Auctions
  • Joni T. Johnson, Indiana (1934-1988), , 21 1/2"H x 15 1/2"W(sight), 30 1/4"H x 23 3/4"W(frame)
    Jan. 25, 2025

    Joni T. Johnson, Indiana (1934-1988), , 21 1/2"H x 15 1/2"W(sight), 30 1/4"H x 23 3/4"W(frame)

    Est: $100 - $200

    Joni T. Johnson Indiana, (1934-1988) Biography from the Archives of askART: The following was submitted as a bulletin by Nelson Begley. Watercolor artist, Joni T. Johnson was a native of Swayzee, Indiana. She went to high school in Indianapolis and attended the Herron Art School. Two of her paintings are in the White House East Room. Her works have hung in 27 countries and owned by such notables as Katherine Hepburn, Harry Belafonte and Lana Turner. --------------------------------------------------------------------- The following, submitted January 2005, is from Gerald A. Notaro, University Librarian, University of South Florida St. Petersburg. His source is the artist, who was his close friend from 1983 until her death. Of her work, he wrote: "Her wispy watercolors of round-eyed children and sad faced Victorian girls, sometimes decorated with poems and splatters, brought untold pleasure to the large number of people who collected them, including Harry Belafonte, Joel Grey and Vincent Price who trooped through Indianapolis at one time or another with theatrical ventures." Born Joan T. Johnson in Swayzee, Indiana, she attended Tech High School and the old John Herron Art Institute. She was a founder of the Talbott Street Art Fair, which still attracts thousands annually. She was married for a short time to Merle Griggs. But nobody knew her by that name. She always signed her paintings J.T. Johnson. She had one son, Merle Griggs, Jr. In the 1950's she had a studio upstairs at the southwest corner of Alabama and 16th Streets that she called Belle Reve, after Blanche Dubois' lost plantation in Tennessee Williams' `A Streetcar Named Desire.' She also lived and worked in Chicago for a time and studied with Charles E. Burchfield. Joan was 54 years old at the time of her death in June of 1988. Much of this information was placed in the Congressional Record on Tuesday, March 21, 1989, by Congressman Andrew Jacobs, who was also a close friend of Joni's.

    Ripley Auctions
  • Joni T. Johnson, Indiana (1934-1988), watercolor on paper, 21 1/2"H x 17 1/2"W(sight), 28"H x 24"W(frame)
    Jan. 25, 2025

    Joni T. Johnson, Indiana (1934-1988), watercolor on paper, 21 1/2"H x 17 1/2"W(sight), 28"H x 24"W(frame)

    Est: $140 - $250

    Joni T. Johnson Indiana, (1934-1988) watercolor on paper Biography from the Archives of askART: The following was submitted as a bulletin by Nelson Begley. Watercolor artist, Joni T. Johnson was a native of Swayzee, Indiana. She went to high school in Indianapolis and attended the Herron Art School. Two of her paintings are in the White House East Room. Her works have hung in 27 countries and owned by such notables as Katherine Hepburn, Harry Belafonte and Lana Turner. --------------------------------------------------------------------- The following, submitted January 2005, is from Gerald A. Notaro, University Librarian, University of South Florida St. Petersburg. His source is the artist, who was his close friend from 1983 until her death. Of her work, he wrote: "Her wispy watercolors of round-eyed children and sad faced Victorian girls, sometimes decorated with poems and splatters, brought untold pleasure to the large number of people who collected them, including Harry Belafonte, Joel Grey and Vincent Price who trooped through Indianapolis at one time or another with theatrical ventures." Born Joan T. Johnson in Swayzee, Indiana, she attended Tech High School and the old John Herron Art Institute. She was a founder of the Talbott Street Art Fair, which still attracts thousands annually. She was married for a short time to Merle Griggs. But nobody knew her by that name. She always signed her paintings J.T. Johnson. She had one son, Merle Griggs, Jr. In the 1950's she had a studio upstairs at the southwest corner of Alabama and 16th Streets that she called Belle Reve, after Blanche Dubois' lost plantation in Tennessee Williams' `A Streetcar Named Desire.' She also lived and worked in Chicago for a time and studied with Charles E. Burchfield. Joan was 54 years old at the time of her death in June of 1988. Much of this information was placed in the Congressional Record on Tuesday, March 21, 1989, by Congressman Andrew Jacobs, who was also a close friend of Joni's.

    Ripley Auctions
  • Joni T. Johnson, Indiana (1934-1988), watercolor on paper, 12 3/4"H x 10"W(sight), 17"H x 14 1/2"W(frame)
    Jan. 25, 2025

    Joni T. Johnson, Indiana (1934-1988), watercolor on paper, 12 3/4"H x 10"W(sight), 17"H x 14 1/2"W(frame)

    Est: $140 - $250

    Joni T. Johnson Indiana, (1934-1988) watercolor on paper Biography from the Archives of askART: The following was submitted as a bulletin by Nelson Begley. Watercolor artist, Joni T. Johnson was a native of Swayzee, Indiana. She went to high school in Indianapolis and attended the Herron Art School. Two of her paintings are in the White House East Room. Her works have hung in 27 countries and owned by such notables as Katherine Hepburn, Harry Belafonte and Lana Turner. --------------------------------------------------------------------- The following, submitted January 2005, is from Gerald A. Notaro, University Librarian, University of South Florida St. Petersburg. His source is the artist, who was his close friend from 1983 until her death. Of her work, he wrote: "Her wispy watercolors of round-eyed children and sad faced Victorian girls, sometimes decorated with poems and splatters, brought untold pleasure to the large number of people who collected them, including Harry Belafonte, Joel Grey and Vincent Price who trooped through Indianapolis at one time or another with theatrical ventures." Born Joan T. Johnson in Swayzee, Indiana, she attended Tech High School and the old John Herron Art Institute. She was a founder of the Talbott Street Art Fair, which still attracts thousands annually. She was married for a short time to Merle Griggs. But nobody knew her by that name. She always signed her paintings J.T. Johnson. She had one son, Merle Griggs, Jr. In the 1950's she had a studio upstairs at the southwest corner of Alabama and 16th Streets that she called Belle Reve, after Blanche Dubois' lost plantation in Tennessee Williams' `A Streetcar Named Desire.' She also lived and worked in Chicago for a time and studied with Charles E. Burchfield. Joan was 54 years old at the time of her death in June of 1988. Much of this information was placed in the Congressional Record on Tuesday, March 21, 1989, by Congressman Andrew Jacobs, who was also a close friend of Joni's.

    Ripley Auctions
  • Joni T. Johnson, Indiana (1934-1988), watercolor on paper, 11"H x 8"W(sight), 16"H x 13"W(frame)
    Jan. 25, 2025

    Joni T. Johnson, Indiana (1934-1988), watercolor on paper, 11"H x 8"W(sight), 16"H x 13"W(frame)

    Est: $140 - $250

    Joni T. Johnson Indiana, (1934-1988) watercolor on paper Biography from the Archives of askART: The following was submitted as a bulletin by Nelson Begley. Watercolor artist, Joni T. Johnson was a native of Swayzee, Indiana. She went to high school in Indianapolis and attended the Herron Art School. Two of her paintings are in the White House East Room. Her works have hung in 27 countries and owned by such notables as Katherine Hepburn, Harry Belafonte and Lana Turner. --------------------------------------------------------------------- The following, submitted January 2005, is from Gerald A. Notaro, University Librarian, University of South Florida St. Petersburg. His source is the artist, who was his close friend from 1983 until her death. Of her work, he wrote: "Her wispy watercolors of round-eyed children and sad faced Victorian girls, sometimes decorated with poems and splatters, brought untold pleasure to the large number of people who collected them, including Harry Belafonte, Joel Grey and Vincent Price who trooped through Indianapolis at one time or another with theatrical ventures." Born Joan T. Johnson in Swayzee, Indiana, she attended Tech High School and the old John Herron Art Institute. She was a founder of the Talbott Street Art Fair, which still attracts thousands annually. She was married for a short time to Merle Griggs. But nobody knew her by that name. She always signed her paintings J.T. Johnson. She had one son, Merle Griggs, Jr. In the 1950's she had a studio upstairs at the southwest corner of Alabama and 16th Streets that she called Belle Reve, after Blanche Dubois' lost plantation in Tennessee Williams' `A Streetcar Named Desire.' She also lived and worked in Chicago for a time and studied with Charles E. Burchfield. Joan was 54 years old at the time of her death in June of 1988. Much of this information was placed in the Congressional Record on Tuesday, March 21, 1989, by Congressman Andrew Jacobs, who was also a close friend of Joni's.

    Ripley Auctions
  • Joni T. Johnson, Indiana (1934-1988), The Bargain, 1980, watercolor on paper, 13"H x 10 1/4"W(sight), 20 1/2"H x 18 1/4"W(frame)
    Jan. 25, 2025

    Joni T. Johnson, Indiana (1934-1988), The Bargain, 1980, watercolor on paper, 13"H x 10 1/4"W(sight), 20 1/2"H x 18 1/4"W(frame)

    Est: $140 - $250

    Joni T. Johnson Indiana, (1934-1988) The Bargain, 1980 watercolor on paper Signed and dated lower left. Biography from the Archives of askART: The following was submitted as a bulletin by Nelson Begley. Watercolor artist, Joni T. Johnson was a native of Swayzee, Indiana. She went to high school in Indianapolis and attended the Herron Art School. Two of her paintings are in the White House East Room. Her works have hung in 27 countries and owned by such notables as Katherine Hepburn, Harry Belafonte and Lana Turner. --------------------------------------------------------------------- The following, submitted January 2005, is from Gerald A. Notaro, University Librarian, University of South Florida St. Petersburg. His source is the artist, who was his close friend from 1983 until her death. Of her work, he wrote: "Her wispy watercolors of round-eyed children and sad faced Victorian girls, sometimes decorated with poems and splatters, brought untold pleasure to the large number of people who collected them, including Harry Belafonte, Joel Grey and Vincent Price who trooped through Indianapolis at one time or another with theatrical ventures." Born Joan T. Johnson in Swayzee, Indiana, she attended Tech High School and the old John Herron Art Institute. She was a founder of the Talbott Street Art Fair, which still attracts thousands annually. She was married for a short time to Merle Griggs. But nobody knew her by that name. She always signed her paintings J.T. Johnson. She had one son, Merle Griggs, Jr. In the 1950's she had a studio upstairs at the southwest corner of Alabama and 16th Streets that she called Belle Reve, after Blanche Dubois' lost plantation in Tennessee Williams' `A Streetcar Named Desire.' She also lived and worked in Chicago for a time and studied with Charles E. Burchfield. Joan was 54 years old at the time of her death in June of 1988. Much of this information was placed in the Congressional Record on Tuesday, March 21, 1989, by Congressman Andrew Jacobs, who was also a close friend of Joni's.

    Ripley Auctions
  • Joni T. Johnson, Indiana (1934-1988), mother and child, watercolor on paper, 6 1/4"H x 6 1/2"W(sight), 10 1/4"H x 10 1/2"W(frame)
    Jan. 25, 2025

    Joni T. Johnson, Indiana (1934-1988), mother and child, watercolor on paper, 6 1/4"H x 6 1/2"W(sight), 10 1/4"H x 10 1/2"W(frame)

    Est: $100 - $200

    Joni T. Johnson Indiana, (1934-1988) mother and child watercolor on paper Biography from the Archives of askART: The following was submitted as a bulletin by Nelson Begley. Watercolor artist, Joni T. Johnson was a native of Swayzee, Indiana. She went to high school in Indianapolis and attended the Herron Art School. Two of her paintings are in the White House East Room. Her works have hung in 27 countries and owned by such notables as Katherine Hepburn, Harry Belafonte and Lana Turner. --------------------------------------------------------------------- The following, submitted January 2005, is from Gerald A. Notaro, University Librarian, University of South Florida St. Petersburg. His source is the artist, who was his close friend from 1983 until her death. Of her work, he wrote: "Her wispy watercolors of round-eyed children and sad faced Victorian girls, sometimes decorated with poems and splatters, brought untold pleasure to the large number of people who collected them, including Harry Belafonte, Joel Grey and Vincent Price who trooped through Indianapolis at one time or another with theatrical ventures." Born Joan T. Johnson in Swayzee, Indiana, she attended Tech High School and the old John Herron Art Institute. She was a founder of the Talbott Street Art Fair, which still attracts thousands annually. She was married for a short time to Merle Griggs. But nobody knew her by that name. She always signed her paintings J.T. Johnson. She had one son, Merle Griggs, Jr. In the 1950's she had a studio upstairs at the southwest corner of Alabama and 16th Streets that she called Belle Reve, after Blanche Dubois' lost plantation in Tennessee Williams' `A Streetcar Named Desire.' She also lived and worked in Chicago for a time and studied with Charles E. Burchfield. Joan was 54 years old at the time of her death in June of 1988. Much of this information was placed in the Congressional Record on Tuesday, March 21, 1989, by Congressman Andrew Jacobs, who was also a close friend of Joni's.

    Ripley Auctions
  • Joni T. Johnson, Indiana (1934-1988), red haired girl with boy and unicorn, 1966, watercolor on paper, 12"H x 10 1/4"W(sight), 18 1/4"H x 16 1/4"W(frame)
    Jan. 25, 2025

    Joni T. Johnson, Indiana (1934-1988), red haired girl with boy and unicorn, 1966, watercolor on paper, 12"H x 10 1/4"W(sight), 18 1/4"H x 16 1/4"W(frame)

    Est: $140 - $250

    Joni T. Johnson Indiana, (1934-1988) red haired girl with boy and unicorn, 1966 watercolor on paper Biography from the Archives of askART: The following was submitted as a bulletin by Nelson Begley. Watercolor artist, Joni T. Johnson was a native of Swayzee, Indiana. She went to high school in Indianapolis and attended the Herron Art School. Two of her paintings are in the White House East Room. Her works have hung in 27 countries and owned by such notables as Katherine Hepburn, Harry Belafonte and Lana Turner. --------------------------------------------------------------------- The following, submitted January 2005, is from Gerald A. Notaro, University Librarian, University of South Florida St. Petersburg. His source is the artist, who was his close friend from 1983 until her death. Of her work, he wrote: "Her wispy watercolors of round-eyed children and sad faced Victorian girls, sometimes decorated with poems and splatters, brought untold pleasure to the large number of people who collected them, including Harry Belafonte, Joel Grey and Vincent Price who trooped through Indianapolis at one time or another with theatrical ventures." Born Joan T. Johnson in Swayzee, Indiana, she attended Tech High School and the old John Herron Art Institute. She was a founder of the Talbott Street Art Fair, which still attracts thousands annually. She was married for a short time to Merle Griggs. But nobody knew her by that name. She always signed her paintings J.T. Johnson. She had one son, Merle Griggs, Jr. In the 1950's she had a studio upstairs at the southwest corner of Alabama and 16th Streets that she called Belle Reve, after Blanche Dubois' lost plantation in Tennessee Williams' `A Streetcar Named Desire.' She also lived and worked in Chicago for a time and studied with Charles E. Burchfield. Joan was 54 years old at the time of her death in June of 1988. Much of this information was placed in the Congressional Record on Tuesday, March 21, 1989, by Congressman Andrew Jacobs, who was also a close friend of Joni's.

    Ripley Auctions
  • Joni T. Johnson, Indiana (1934-1988), male figure with mandolin, watercolor on paper, 19"H x 18"W
    Jan. 25, 2025

    Joni T. Johnson, Indiana (1934-1988), male figure with mandolin, watercolor on paper, 19"H x 18"W

    Est: $140 - $250

    Joni T. Johnson Indiana, (1934-1988) male figure with mandolin watercolor on paper Biography from the Archives of askART: The following was submitted as a bulletin by Nelson Begley. Watercolor artist, Joni T. Johnson was a native of Swayzee, Indiana. She went to high school in Indianapolis and attended the Herron Art School. Two of her paintings are in the White House East Room. Her works have hung in 27 countries and owned by such notables as Katherine Hepburn, Harry Belafonte and Lana Turner. --------------------------------------------------------------------- The following, submitted January 2005, is from Gerald A. Notaro, University Librarian, University of South Florida St. Petersburg. His source is the artist, who was his close friend from 1983 until her death. Of her work, he wrote: "Her wispy watercolors of round-eyed children and sad faced Victorian girls, sometimes decorated with poems and splatters, brought untold pleasure to the large number of people who collected them, including Harry Belafonte, Joel Grey and Vincent Price who trooped through Indianapolis at one time or another with theatrical ventures." Born Joan T. Johnson in Swayzee, Indiana, she attended Tech High School and the old John Herron Art Institute. She was a founder of the Talbott Street Art Fair, which still attracts thousands annually. She was married for a short time to Merle Griggs. But nobody knew her by that name. She always signed her paintings J.T. Johnson. She had one son, Merle Griggs, Jr. In the 1950's she had a studio upstairs at the southwest corner of Alabama and 16th Streets that she called Belle Reve, after Blanche Dubois' lost plantation in Tennessee Williams' `A Streetcar Named Desire.' She also lived and worked in Chicago for a time and studied with Charles E. Burchfield. Joan was 54 years old at the time of her death in June of 1988. Much of this information was placed in the Congressional Record on Tuesday, March 21, 1989, by Congressman Andrew Jacobs, who was also a close friend of Joni's.

    Ripley Auctions
  • Joni T. Johnson, Indiana (1934-1988), The Family, watercolor on paper, 23"H x 18 1/2"W(sight), 35 1/2"H x 30"W(frame)
    Jan. 25, 2025

    Joni T. Johnson, Indiana (1934-1988), The Family, watercolor on paper, 23"H x 18 1/2"W(sight), 35 1/2"H x 30"W(frame)

    Est: $140 - $250

    Joni T. Johnson Indiana, (1934-1988) The Family watercolor on paper Signed lower center. From the collection of Keith Little, Indianapolis, IN. Biography from the Archives of askART: The following was submitted as a bulletin by Nelson Begley. Watercolor artist, Joni T. Johnson was a native of Swayzee, Indiana. She went to high school in Indianapolis and attended the Herron Art School. Two of her paintings are in the White House East Room. Her works have hung in 27 countries and owned by such notables as Katherine Hepburn, Harry Belafonte and Lana Turner. --------------------------------------------------------------------- The following, submitted January 2005, is from Gerald A. Notaro, University Librarian, University of South Florida St. Petersburg. His source is the artist, who was his close friend from 1983 until her death. Of her work, he wrote: "Her wispy watercolors of round-eyed children and sad faced Victorian girls, sometimes decorated with poems and splatters, brought untold pleasure to the large number of people who collected them, including Harry Belafonte, Joel Grey and Vincent Price who trooped through Indianapolis at one time or another with theatrical ventures." Born Joan T. Johnson in Swayzee, Indiana, she attended Tech High School and the old John Herron Art Institute. She was a founder of the Talbott Street Art Fair, which still attracts thousands annually. She was married for a short time to Merle Griggs. But nobody knew her by that name. She always signed her paintings J.T. Johnson. She had one son, Merle Griggs, Jr. In the 1950's she had a studio upstairs at the southwest corner of Alabama and 16th Streets that she called Belle Reve, after Blanche Dubois' lost plantation in Tennessee Williams' `A Streetcar Named Desire.' She also lived and worked in Chicago for a time and studied with Charles E. Burchfield. Joan was 54 years old at the time of her death in June of 1988. Much of this information was placed in the Congressional Record on Tuesday, March 21, 1989, by Congressman Andrew Jacobs, who was also a close friend of Joni's.

    Ripley Auctions
  • Joni T. Johnson, Indiana (1934-1988), figure with ruffle collar and bird, 1966, watercolor and ink on paper, 22 1/2"H x 16 1/2"W(sight), 31 1/2"H x 25"W(frame)
    Jan. 25, 2025

    Joni T. Johnson, Indiana (1934-1988), figure with ruffle collar and bird, 1966, watercolor and ink on paper, 22 1/2"H x 16 1/2"W(sight), 31 1/2"H x 25"W(frame)

    Est: $100 - $200

    Joni T. Johnson Indiana, (1934-1988) figure with ruffle collar and bird, 1966 watercolor and ink on paper Signed lower left. From the collection of Keith Little, Indianapolis, IN. Biography from the Archives of askART: The following was submitted as a bulletin by Nelson Begley. Watercolor artist, Joni T. Johnson was a native of Swayzee, Indiana. She went to high school in Indianapolis and attended the Herron Art School. Two of her paintings are in the White House East Room. Her works have hung in 27 countries and owned by such notables as Katherine Hepburn, Harry Belafonte and Lana Turner. --------------------------------------------------------------------- The following, submitted January 2005, is from Gerald A. Notaro, University Librarian, University of South Florida St. Petersburg. His source is the artist, who was his close friend from 1983 until her death. Of her work, he wrote: "Her wispy watercolors of round-eyed children and sad faced Victorian girls, sometimes decorated with poems and splatters, brought untold pleasure to the large number of people who collected them, including Harry Belafonte, Joel Grey and Vincent Price who trooped through Indianapolis at one time or another with theatrical ventures." Born Joan T. Johnson in Swayzee, Indiana, she attended Tech High School and the old John Herron Art Institute. She was a founder of the Talbott Street Art Fair, which still attracts thousands annually. She was married for a short time to Merle Griggs. But nobody knew her by that name. She always signed her paintings J.T. Johnson. She had one son, Merle Griggs, Jr. In the 1950's she had a studio upstairs at the southwest corner of Alabama and 16th Streets that she called Belle Reve, after Blanche Dubois' lost plantation in Tennessee Williams' `A Streetcar Named Desire.' She also lived and worked in Chicago for a time and studied with Charles E. Burchfield. Joan was 54 years old at the time of her death in June of 1988. Much of this information was placed in the Congressional Record on Tuesday, March 21, 1989, by Congressman Andrew Jacobs, who was also a close friend of Joni's.

    Ripley Auctions
  • Joni T. Johnson, Indiana (1934-1988), The Faun, 1969, watercolor and ink on paper, 19 3/4"H x 25"W(sight), 32 1/2"H x 38 1/4"W(frame)
    Jan. 25, 2025

    Joni T. Johnson, Indiana (1934-1988), The Faun, 1969, watercolor and ink on paper, 19 3/4"H x 25"W(sight), 32 1/2"H x 38 1/4"W(frame)

    Est: $100 - $200

    Joni T. Johnson Indiana, (1934-1988) The Faun, 1969 watercolor and ink on paper From the collection of Keith Little, Indianapolis, IN. Biography from the Archives of askART: The following was submitted as a bulletin by Nelson Begley. Watercolor artist, Joni T. Johnson was a native of Swayzee, Indiana. She went to high school in Indianapolis and attended the Herron Art School. Two of her paintings are in the White House East Room. Her works have hung in 27 countries and owned by such notables as Katherine Hepburn, Harry Belafonte and Lana Turner. --------------------------------------------------------------------- The following, submitted January 2005, is from Gerald A. Notaro, University Librarian, University of South Florida St. Petersburg. His source is the artist, who was his close friend from 1983 until her death. Of her work, he wrote: "Her wispy watercolors of round-eyed children and sad faced Victorian girls, sometimes decorated with poems and splatters, brought untold pleasure to the large number of people who collected them, including Harry Belafonte, Joel Grey and Vincent Price who trooped through Indianapolis at one time or another with theatrical ventures." Born Joan T. Johnson in Swayzee, Indiana, she attended Tech High School and the old John Herron Art Institute. She was a founder of the Talbott Street Art Fair, which still attracts thousands annually. She was married for a short time to Merle Griggs. But nobody knew her by that name. She always signed her paintings J.T. Johnson. She had one son, Merle Griggs, Jr. In the 1950's she had a studio upstairs at the southwest corner of Alabama and 16th Streets that she called Belle Reve, after Blanche Dubois' lost plantation in Tennessee Williams' `A Streetcar Named Desire.' She also lived and worked in Chicago for a time and studied with Charles E. Burchfield. Joan was 54 years old at the time of her death in June of 1988. Much of this information was placed in the Congressional Record on Tuesday, March 21, 1989, by Congressman Andrew Jacobs, who was also a close friend of Joni's.

    Ripley Auctions
  • Joni T. Johnson, Indiana (1934-1988), three abstract male figures in hats, acrylic and watercolor on paper, 13 3/4"H x10 1/4"W(sight), 21 1/2"H x 18"W(frame)
    Jan. 25, 2025

    Joni T. Johnson, Indiana (1934-1988), three abstract male figures in hats, acrylic and watercolor on paper, 13 3/4"H x10 1/4"W(sight), 21 1/2"H x 18"W(frame)

    Est: $100 - $200

    Joni T. Johnson Indiana, (1934-1988) three abstract male figures in hats acrylic and watercolor on paper signed lower right. From the collection of Keith Little, Indianapolis, IN. The following was submitted as a bulletin by Nelson Begley. Watercolor artist, Joni T. Johnson was a native of Swayzee, Indiana. She went to high school in Indianapolis and attended the Herron Art School. Two of her paintings are in the White House East Room. Her works have hung in 27 countries and owned by such notables as Katherine Hepburn, Harry Belafonte and Lana Turner. --------------------------------------------------------------------- The following, submitted January 2005, is from Gerald A. Notaro, University Librarian, University of South Florida St. Petersburg. His source is the artist, who was his close friend from 1983 until her death. Of her work, he wrote: "Her wispy watercolors of round-eyed children and sad faced Victorian girls, sometimes decorated with poems and splatters, brought untold pleasure to the large number of people who collected them, including Harry Belafonte, Joel Grey and Vincent Price who trooped through Indianapolis at one time or another with theatrical ventures." Born Joan T. Johnson in Swayzee, Indiana, she attended Tech High School and the old John Herron Art Institute. She was a founder of the Talbott Street Art Fair, which still attracts thousands annually. She was married for a short time to Merle Griggs. But nobody knew her by that name. She always signed her paintings J.T. Johnson. She had one son, Merle Griggs, Jr. In the 1950's she had a studio upstairs at the southwest corner of Alabama and 16th Streets that she called Belle Reve, after Blanche Dubois' lost plantation in Tennessee Williams' `A Streetcar Named Desire.' She also lived and worked in Chicago for a time and studied with Charles E. Burchfield. Joan was 54 years old at the time of her death in June of 1988. Much of this information was placed in the Congressional Record on Tuesday, March 21, 1989, by Congressman Andrew Jacobs, who was also a close friend of Joni's.

    Ripley Auctions
  • Joni T. Johnson, American (1934 - 1988), Couple with letter, January, 1972, watercolor on paper, 21 1/4"H x 26 1/2"W
    Jan. 25, 2025

    Joni T. Johnson, American (1934 - 1988), Couple with letter, January, 1972, watercolor on paper, 21 1/4"H x 26 1/2"W

    Est: $100 - $200

    Joni T. Johnson American, (1934 - 1988) Couple with letter, January, 1972 watercolor on paper signed lower right. The following was submitted as a bulletin by Nelson Begley. Watercolor artist, Joni T. Johnson was a native of Swayzee, Indiana. She went to high school in Indianapolis and attended the Herron Art School. Two of her paintings are in the White House East Room. Her works have hung in 27 countries and owned by such notables as Katherine Hepburn, Harry Belafonte and Lana Turner. --------------------------------------------------------------------- The following, submitted January 2005, is from Gerald A. Notaro, University Librarian, University of South Florida St. Petersburg. His source is the artist, who was his close friend from 1983 until her death. Of her work, he wrote: "Her wispy watercolors of round-eyed children and sad faced Victorian girls, sometimes decorated with poems and splatters, brought untold pleasure to the large number of people who collected them, including Harry Belafonte, Joel Grey and Vincent Price who trooped through Indianapolis at one time or another with theatrical ventures." Born Joan T. Johnson in Swayzee, Indiana, she attended Tech High School and the old John Herron Art Institute. She was a founder of the Talbott Street Art Fair, which still attracts thousands annually. She was married for a short time to Merle Griggs. But nobody knew her by that name. She always signed her paintings J.T. Johnson. She had one son, Merle Griggs, Jr. In the 1950's she had a studio upstairs at the southwest corner of Alabama and 16th Streets that she called Belle Reve, after Blanche Dubois' lost plantation in Tennessee Williams' `A Streetcar Named Desire.' She also lived and worked in Chicago for a time and studied with Charles E. Burchfield. Joan was 54 years old at the time of her death in June of 1988. Much of this information was placed in the Congressional Record on Tuesday, March 21, 1989, by Congressman Andrew Jacobs, who was also a close friend of Joni's.

    Ripley Auctions
  • Joni T. Johnson, Indiana (1934-1988), red head girl with boy riding a unicorn, 1960, ink and gouache on paper, 19"H x 24"W (sight), 30 1/2"H x 35 1/2"W (frame)
    Dec. 04, 2024

    Joni T. Johnson, Indiana (1934-1988), red head girl with boy riding a unicorn, 1960, ink and gouache on paper, 19"H x 24"W (sight), 30 1/2"H x 35 1/2"W (frame)

    Est: -

    Joni T. Johnson Indiana, (1934-1988) red head girl with boy riding a unicorn, 1960 ink and gouache on paper Signed and dated lower left. Biography from the Archives of askART: The following was submitted as a bulletin by Nelson Begley. Watercolor artist, Joni T. Johnson was a native of Swayzee, Indiana. She went to high school in Indianapolis and attended the Herron Art School. Two of her paintings are in the White House East Room. Her works have hung in 27 countries and owned by such notables as Katherine Hepburn, Harry Belafonte and Lana Turner. --------------------------------------------------------------------- The following, submitted January 2005, is from Gerald A. Notaro, University Librarian, University of South Florida St. Petersburg. His source is the artist, who was his close friend from 1983 until her death. Of her work, he wrote: "Her wispy watercolors of round-eyed children and sad faced Victorian girls, sometimes decorated with poems and splatters, brought untold pleasure to the large number of people who collected them, including Harry Belafonte, Joel Grey and Vincent Price who trooped through Indianapolis at one time or another with theatrical ventures." Born Joan T. Johnson in Swayzee, Indiana, she attended Tech High School and the old John Herron Art Institute. She was a founder of the Talbott Street Art Fair, which still attracts thousands annually. She was married for a short time to Merle Griggs. But nobody knew her by that name. She always signed her paintings J.T. Johnson. She had one son, Merle Griggs, Jr. In the 1950's she had a studio upstairs at the southwest corner of Alabama and 16th Streets that she called Belle Reve, after Blanche Dubois' lost plantation in Tennessee Williams' `A Streetcar Named Desire.' She also lived and worked in Chicago for a time and studied with Charles E. Burchfield. Joan was 54 years old at the time of her death in June of 1988. Much of this information was placed in the Congressional Record on Tuesday, March 21, 1989, by Congressman Andrew Jacobs, who was also a close friend of Joni's.

    Ripley Auctions
  • Joni T. Johnson, Indiana (1934 - 1988), Figure with mandolin, 1969, watercolor on paper, 21 3/4"H x 15"W
    Oct. 09, 2024

    Joni T. Johnson, Indiana (1934 - 1988), Figure with mandolin, 1969, watercolor on paper, 21 3/4"H x 15"W

    Est: $200 - $400

    Joni T. Johnson Indiana, (1934 - 1988) Figure with mandolin, 1969 watercolor on paper Signed lower right. Biography from the Archives of askART: The following was submitted as a bulletin by Nelson Begley. Watercolor artist, Joni T. Johnson was a native of Swayzee, Indiana. She went to high school in Indianapolis and attended the Herron Art School. Two of her paintings are in the White House East Room. Her works have hung in 27 countries and owned by such notables as Katherine Hepburn, Harry Belafonte and Lana Turner.

    Ripley Auctions
  • Joni T. Johnson, Indiana (1934-1988), reclining female nude, 1978, tempera on egg shells, 4 1/2"H x 7 1/2"W (sight), 8 3/4"H x 10 1/2"W (frame)
    Jul. 10, 2024

    Joni T. Johnson, Indiana (1934-1988), reclining female nude, 1978, tempera on egg shells, 4 1/2"H x 7 1/2"W (sight), 8 3/4"H x 10 1/2"W (frame)

    Est: $140 - $200

    Joni T. Johnson Indiana, (1934-1988) reclining female nude, 1978 tempera on egg shells Signed and dated verso. Biography from the Archives of askART: The following was submitted as a bulletin by Nelson Begley. Watercolor artist, Joni T. Johnson was a native of Swayzee, Indiana. She went to high school in Indianapolis and attended the Herron Art School. Two of her paintings are in the White House East Room. Her works have hung in 27 countries and owned by such notables as Katherine Hepburn, Harry Belafonte and Lana Turner. --------------------------------------------------------------------- The following, submitted January 2005, is from Gerald A. Notaro, University Librarian, University of South Florida St. Petersburg. His source is the artist, who was his close friend from 1983 until her death. Of her work, he wrote: "Her wispy watercolors of round-eyed children and sad faced Victorian girls, sometimes decorated with poems and splatters, brought untold pleasure to the large number of people who collected them, including Harry Belafonte, Joel Grey and Vincent Price who trooped through Indianapolis at one time or another with theatrical ventures." Born Joan T. Johnson in Swayzee, Indiana, she attended Tech High School and the old John Herron Art Institute. She was a founder of the Talbott Street Art Fair, which still attracts thousands annually. She was married for a short time to Merle Griggs. But nobody knew her by that name. She always signed her paintings J.T. Johnson. She had one son, Merle Griggs, Jr. In the 1950's she had a studio upstairs at the southwest corner of Alabama and 16th Streets that she called Belle Reve, after Blanche Dubois' lost plantation in Tennessee Williams' `A Streetcar Named Desire.' She also lived and worked in Chicago for a time and studied with Charles E. Burchfield. Joan was 54 years old at the time of her death in June of 1988. Much of this information was placed in the Congressional Record on Tuesday, March 21, 1989, by Congressman Andrew Jacobs, who was also a close friend of Joni's.

    Ripley Auctions
  • Joni T. Johnson, Indiana (1934-1988), father and child familial scene, 1971, watercolor on paper, 24"H x 19 1/2"W
    Jun. 01, 2024

    Joni T. Johnson, Indiana (1934-1988), father and child familial scene, 1971, watercolor on paper, 24"H x 19 1/2"W

    Est: $200 - $400

    Joni T. Johnson Indiana, (1934-1988) father and child familial scene, 1971 watercolor on paper Signed and dated lower right. Biography from the Archives of askART: The following was submitted as a bulletin by Nelson Begley. Watercolor artist, Joni T. Johnson was a native of Swayzee, Indiana. She went to high school in Indianapolis and attended the Herron Art School. Two of her paintings are in the White House East Room. Her works have hung in 27 countries and owned by such notables as Katherine Hepburn, Harry Belafonte and Lana Turner. --------------------------------------------------------------------- The following, submitted January 2005, is from Gerald A. Notaro, University Librarian, University of South Florida St. Petersburg. His source is the artist, who was his close friend from 1983 until her death. Of her work, he wrote: "Her wispy watercolors of round-eyed children and sad faced Victorian girls, sometimes decorated with poems and splatters, brought untold pleasure to the large number of people who collected them, including Harry Belafonte, Joel Grey and Vincent Price who trooped through Indianapolis at one time or another with theatrical ventures." Born Joan T. Johnson in Swayzee, Indiana, she attended Tech High School and the old John Herron Art Institute. She was a founder of the Talbott Street Art Fair, which still attracts thousands annually. She was married for a short time to Merle Griggs. But nobody knew her by that name. She always signed her paintings J.T. Johnson. She had one son, Merle Griggs, Jr. In the 1950's she had a studio upstairs at the southwest corner of Alabama and 16th Streets that she called Belle Reve, after Blanche Dubois' lost plantation in Tennessee Williams' `A Streetcar Named Desire.' She also lived and worked in Chicago for a time and studied with Charles E. Burchfield. Joan was 54 years old at the time of her death in June of 1988. Much of this information was placed in the Congressional Record on Tuesday, March 21, 1989, by Congressman Andrew Jacobs, who was also a close friend of Joni's.

    Ripley Auctions
  • Joni T. Johnson, Indiana (1934-1988), butterflies, 1963, early watercolor on paper, 13"H x 16"W
    Jun. 01, 2024

    Joni T. Johnson, Indiana (1934-1988), butterflies, 1963, early watercolor on paper, 13"H x 16"W

    Est: $140 - $300

    Joni T. Johnson Indiana, (1934-1988) butterflies, 1963 early watercolor on paper Dated lower right. Biography from the Archives of askART: The following was submitted as a bulletin by Nelson Begley. Watercolor artist, Joni T. Johnson was a native of Swayzee, Indiana. She went to high school in Indianapolis and attended the Herron Art School. Two of her paintings are in the White House East Room. Her works have hung in 27 countries and owned by such notables as Katherine Hepburn, Harry Belafonte and Lana Turner. --------------------------------------------------------------------- The following, submitted January 2005, is from Gerald A. Notaro, University Librarian, University of South Florida St. Petersburg. His source is the artist, who was his close friend from 1983 until her death. Of her work, he wrote: "Her wispy watercolors of round-eyed children and sad faced Victorian girls, sometimes decorated with poems and splatters, brought untold pleasure to the large number of people who collected them, including Harry Belafonte, Joel Grey and Vincent Price who trooped through Indianapolis at one time or another with theatrical ventures." Born Joan T. Johnson in Swayzee, Indiana, she attended Tech High School and the old John Herron Art Institute. She was a founder of the Talbott Street Art Fair, which still attracts thousands annually. She was married for a short time to Merle Griggs. But nobody knew her by that name. She always signed her paintings J.T. Johnson. She had one son, Merle Griggs, Jr. In the 1950's she had a studio upstairs at the southwest corner of Alabama and 16th Streets that she called Belle Reve, after Blanche Dubois' lost plantation in Tennessee Williams' `A Streetcar Named Desire.' She also lived and worked in Chicago for a time and studied with Charles E. Burchfield. Joan was 54 years old at the time of her death in June of 1988. Much of this information was placed in the Congressional Record on Tuesday, March 21, 1989, by Congressman Andrew Jacobs, who was also a close friend of Joni's.

    Ripley Auctions
  • Joni T. Johnson, Indiana (1934-1988), red head girl with boy riding a unicorn, 1960, ink and gouache on paper, 19"H x 24"W (sight), 30 1/2"H x 35 1/2"W (frame)
    Jun. 01, 2024

    Joni T. Johnson, Indiana (1934-1988), red head girl with boy riding a unicorn, 1960, ink and gouache on paper, 19"H x 24"W (sight), 30 1/2"H x 35 1/2"W (frame)

    Est: $600 - $900

    Joni T. Johnson Indiana, (1934-1988) red head girl with boy riding a unicorn, 1960 ink and gouache on paper Signed and dated lower left. Biography from the Archives of askART: The following was submitted as a bulletin by Nelson Begley. Watercolor artist, Joni T. Johnson was a native of Swayzee, Indiana. She went to high school in Indianapolis and attended the Herron Art School. Two of her paintings are in the White House East Room. Her works have hung in 27 countries and owned by such notables as Katherine Hepburn, Harry Belafonte and Lana Turner. --------------------------------------------------------------------- The following, submitted January 2005, is from Gerald A. Notaro, University Librarian, University of South Florida St. Petersburg. His source is the artist, who was his close friend from 1983 until her death. Of her work, he wrote: "Her wispy watercolors of round-eyed children and sad faced Victorian girls, sometimes decorated with poems and splatters, brought untold pleasure to the large number of people who collected them, including Harry Belafonte, Joel Grey and Vincent Price who trooped through Indianapolis at one time or another with theatrical ventures." Born Joan T. Johnson in Swayzee, Indiana, she attended Tech High School and the old John Herron Art Institute. She was a founder of the Talbott Street Art Fair, which still attracts thousands annually. She was married for a short time to Merle Griggs. But nobody knew her by that name. She always signed her paintings J.T. Johnson. She had one son, Merle Griggs, Jr. In the 1950's she had a studio upstairs at the southwest corner of Alabama and 16th Streets that she called Belle Reve, after Blanche Dubois' lost plantation in Tennessee Williams' `A Streetcar Named Desire.' She also lived and worked in Chicago for a time and studied with Charles E. Burchfield. Joan was 54 years old at the time of her death in June of 1988. Much of this information was placed in the Congressional Record on Tuesday, March 21, 1989, by Congressman Andrew Jacobs, who was also a close friend of Joni's.

    Ripley Auctions
  • Joni T. Johnson, Indiana (1934-1988), field of blue people in mourning, 1973, watercolor on paper, 21 1/2"H x 26 3/4"W (sheet)
    Mar. 30, 2024

    Joni T. Johnson, Indiana (1934-1988), field of blue people in mourning, 1973, watercolor on paper, 21 1/2"H x 26 3/4"W (sheet)

    Est: $300 - $500

    Joni T. Johnson Indiana, (1934-1988) field of blue people in mourning, 1973 watercolor on paper Signed and dated lower right. Biography from the Archives of askART: The following was submitted as a bulletin by Nelson Begley. Watercolor artist, Joni T. Johnson was a native of Swayzee, Indiana. She went to high school in Indianapolis and attended the Herron Art School. Two of her paintings are in the White House East Room. Her works have hung in 27 countries and owned by such notables as Katherine Hepburn, Harry Belafonte and Lana Turner. --------------------------------------------------------------------- The following, submitted January 2005, is from Gerald A. Notaro, University Librarian, University of South Florida St. Petersburg. His source is the artist, who was his close friend from 1983 until her death. Of her work, he wrote: "Her wispy watercolors of round-eyed children and sad faced Victorian girls, sometimes decorated with poems and splatters, brought untold pleasure to the large number of people who collected them, including Harry Belafonte, Joel Grey and Vincent Price who trooped through Indianapolis at one time or another with theatrical ventures." Born Joan T. Johnson in Swayzee, Indiana, she attended Tech High School and the old John Herron Art Institute. She was a founder of the Talbott Street Art Fair, which still attracts thousands annually. She was married for a short time to Merle Griggs. But nobody knew her by that name. She always signed her paintings J.T. Johnson. She had one son, Merle Griggs, Jr. In the 1950's she had a studio upstairs at the southwest corner of Alabama and 16th Streets that she called Belle Reve, after Blanche Dubois' lost plantation in Tennessee Williams' `A Streetcar Named Desire.' She also lived and worked in Chicago for a time and studied with Charles E. Burchfield. Joan was 54 years old at the time of her death in June of 1988. Much of this information was placed in the Congressional Record on Tuesday, March 21, 1989, by Congressman Andrew Jacobs, who was also a close friend of Joni's.

    Ripley Auctions
  • Joni T. Johnson, Indiana (1934-1988), bouquet of roses, 1968, watercolor on paper, 23 3/4"H x 18 3/4"W (sheet)
    Mar. 30, 2024

    Joni T. Johnson, Indiana (1934-1988), bouquet of roses, 1968, watercolor on paper, 23 3/4"H x 18 3/4"W (sheet)

    Est: $100 - $200

    Joni T. Johnson Indiana, (1934-1988) bouquet of roses, 1968 watercolor on paper Signed and dated lower left. Biography from the Archives of askART: The following was submitted as a bulletin by Nelson Begley. Watercolor artist, Joni T. Johnson was a native of Swayzee, Indiana. She went to high school in Indianapolis and attended the Herron Art School. Two of her paintings are in the White House East Room. Her works have hung in 27 countries and owned by such notables as Katherine Hepburn, Harry Belafonte and Lana Turner. --------------------------------------------------------------------- The following, submitted January 2005, is from Gerald A. Notaro, University Librarian, University of South Florida St. Petersburg. His source is the artist, who was his close friend from 1983 until her death. Of her work, he wrote: "Her wispy watercolors of round-eyed children and sad faced Victorian girls, sometimes decorated with poems and splatters, brought untold pleasure to the large number of people who collected them, including Harry Belafonte, Joel Grey and Vincent Price who trooped through Indianapolis at one time or another with theatrical ventures." Born Joan T. Johnson in Swayzee, Indiana, she attended Tech High School and the old John Herron Art Institute. She was a founder of the Talbott Street Art Fair, which still attracts thousands annually. She was married for a short time to Merle Griggs. But nobody knew her by that name. She always signed her paintings J.T. Johnson. She had one son, Merle Griggs, Jr. In the 1950's she had a studio upstairs at the southwest corner of Alabama and 16th Streets that she called Belle Reve, after Blanche Dubois' lost plantation in Tennessee Williams' `A Streetcar Named Desire.' She also lived and worked in Chicago for a time and studied with Charles E. Burchfield. Joan was 54 years old at the time of her death in June of 1988. Much of this information was placed in the Congressional Record on Tuesday, March 21, 1989, by Congressman Andrew Jacobs, who was also a close friend of Joni's.

    Ripley Auctions
  • Joni T. Johnson, Indiana (1934-1988), boy with basket of green apples, 1973, watercolor on paper, 26 1/2"H x 19"W (sheet)
    Mar. 30, 2024

    Joni T. Johnson, Indiana (1934-1988), boy with basket of green apples, 1973, watercolor on paper, 26 1/2"H x 19"W (sheet)

    Est: $200 - $300

    Joni T. Johnson Indiana, (1934-1988) boy with basket of green apples, 1973 watercolor on paper Signed and dated lower right. Biography from the Archives of askART: The following was submitted as a bulletin by Nelson Begley. Watercolor artist, Joni T. Johnson was a native of Swayzee, Indiana. She went to high school in Indianapolis and attended the Herron Art School. Two of her paintings are in the White House East Room. Her works have hung in 27 countries and owned by such notables as Katherine Hepburn, Harry Belafonte and Lana Turner. --------------------------------------------------------------------- The following, submitted January 2005, is from Gerald A. Notaro, University Librarian, University of South Florida St. Petersburg. His source is the artist, who was his close friend from 1983 until her death. Of her work, he wrote: "Her wispy watercolors of round-eyed children and sad faced Victorian girls, sometimes decorated with poems and splatters, brought untold pleasure to the large number of people who collected them, including Harry Belafonte, Joel Grey and Vincent Price who trooped through Indianapolis at one time or another with theatrical ventures." Born Joan T. Johnson in Swayzee, Indiana, she attended Tech High School and the old John Herron Art Institute. She was a founder of the Talbott Street Art Fair, which still attracts thousands annually. She was married for a short time to Merle Griggs. But nobody knew her by that name. She always signed her paintings J.T. Johnson. She had one son, Merle Griggs, Jr. In the 1950's she had a studio upstairs at the southwest corner of Alabama and 16th Streets that she called Belle Reve, after Blanche Dubois' lost plantation in Tennessee Williams' `A Streetcar Named Desire.' She also lived and worked in Chicago for a time and studied with Charles E. Burchfield. Joan was 54 years old at the time of her death in June of 1988. Much of this information was placed in the Congressional Record on Tuesday, March 21, 1989, by Congressman Andrew Jacobs, who was also a close friend of Joni's.

    Ripley Auctions
  • Joni T. Johnson, Indiana (1934-1988), female portrait with flower crown, watercolor on paper, 12 1/2"H x 10 3/4"W (sheet)
    Mar. 30, 2024

    Joni T. Johnson, Indiana (1934-1988), female portrait with flower crown, watercolor on paper, 12 1/2"H x 10 3/4"W (sheet)

    Est: $200 - $400

    Joni T. Johnson Indiana, (1934-1988) female portrait with flower crown watercolor on paper Signed and dated lower left. Biography from the Archives of askART: The following was submitted as a bulletin by Nelson Begley. Watercolor artist, Joni T. Johnson was a native of Swayzee, Indiana. She went to high school in Indianapolis and attended the Herron Art School. Two of her paintings are in the White House East Room. Her works have hung in 27 countries and owned by such notables as Katherine Hepburn, Harry Belafonte and Lana Turner. --------------------------------------------------------------------- The following, submitted January 2005, is from Gerald A. Notaro, University Librarian, University of South Florida St. Petersburg. His source is the artist, who was his close friend from 1983 until her death. Of her work, he wrote: "Her wispy watercolors of round-eyed children and sad faced Victorian girls, sometimes decorated with poems and splatters, brought untold pleasure to the large number of people who collected them, including Harry Belafonte, Joel Grey and Vincent Price who trooped through Indianapolis at one time or another with theatrical ventures." Born Joan T. Johnson in Swayzee, Indiana, she attended Tech High School and the old John Herron Art Institute. She was a founder of the Talbott Street Art Fair, which still attracts thousands annually. She was married for a short time to Merle Griggs. But nobody knew her by that name. She always signed her paintings J.T. Johnson. She had one son, Merle Griggs, Jr. In the 1950's she had a studio upstairs at the southwest corner of Alabama and 16th Streets that she called Belle Reve, after Blanche Dubois' lost plantation in Tennessee Williams' `A Streetcar Named Desire.' She also lived and worked in Chicago for a time and studied with Charles E. Burchfield. Joan was 54 years old at the time of her death in June of 1988. Much of this information was placed in the Congressional Record on Tuesday, March 21, 1989, by Congressman Andrew Jacobs, who was also a close friend of Joni's.

    Ripley Auctions
  • Joni T. Johnson, Indiana (1934-1988), man and red-haired woman in a field, 1972 / Dancing Girl and studies, watercolor on paper / mixed media on paper, 18 1/2"H x 26 1/2"W (largest)
    Mar. 02, 2024

    Joni T. Johnson, Indiana (1934-1988), man and red-haired woman in a field, 1972 / Dancing Girl and studies, watercolor on paper / mixed media on paper, 18 1/2"H x 26 1/2"W (largest)

    Est: $140 - $300

    Joni T. Johnson Indiana, (1934-1988) man and red-haired woman in a field, 1972 / Dancing Girl and studies watercolor on paper / mixed media on paper man and red-haired woman in a field: Signed and dated lower right. Dancing Girl: titled lower left Biography from the Archives of askART: The following was submitted as a bulletin by Nelson Begley. Watercolor artist, Joni T. Johnson was a native of Swayzee, Indiana. She went to high school in Indianapolis and attended the Herron Art School. Two of her paintings are in the White House East Room. Her works have hung in 27 countries and owned by such notables as Katherine Hepburn, Harry Belafonte and Lana Turner. --------------------------------------------------------------------- The following, submitted January 2005, is from Gerald A. Notaro, University Librarian, University of South Florida St. Petersburg. His source is the artist, who was his close friend from 1983 until her death. Of her work, he wrote: "Her wispy watercolors of round-eyed children and sad faced Victorian girls, sometimes decorated with poems and splatters, brought untold pleasure to the large number of people who collected them, including Harry Belafonte, Joel Grey and Vincent Price who trooped through Indianapolis at one time or another with theatrical ventures." Born Joan T. Johnson in Swayzee, Indiana, she attended Tech High School and the old John Herron Art Institute. She was a founder of the Talbott Street Art Fair, which still attracts thousands annually. She was married for a short time to Merle Griggs. But nobody knew her by that name. She always signed her paintings J.T. Johnson. She had one son, Merle Griggs, Jr. In the 1950's she had a studio upstairs at the southwest corner of Alabama and 16th Streets that she called Belle Reve, after Blanche Dubois' lost plantation in Tennessee Williams' `A Streetcar Named Desire.' She also lived and worked in Chicago for a time and studied with Charles E. Burchfield. Joan was 54 years old at the time of her death in June of 1988. Much of this information was placed in the Congressional Record on Tuesday, March 21, 1989, by Congressman Andrew Jacobs, who was also a close friend of Joni's.

    Ripley Auctions
  • Joni T. Johnson, Indiana (1934-1988), figure with blue mandolin, 1971, watercolor on paper, 24 1/2"H x 20"W
    Mar. 02, 2024

    Joni T. Johnson, Indiana (1934-1988), figure with blue mandolin, 1971, watercolor on paper, 24 1/2"H x 20"W

    Est: $200 - $300

    Joni T. Johnson Indiana, (1934-1988) figure with blue mandolin, 1971 watercolor on paper Signed and dated lower right. Biography from the Archives of askART: The following was submitted as a bulletin by Nelson Begley. Watercolor artist, Joni T. Johnson was a native of Swayzee, Indiana. She went to high school in Indianapolis and attended the Herron Art School. Two of her paintings are in the White House East Room. Her works have hung in 27 countries and owned by such notables as Katherine Hepburn, Harry Belafonte and Lana Turner. --------------------------------------------------------------------- The following, submitted January 2005, is from Gerald A. Notaro, University Librarian, University of South Florida St. Petersburg. His source is the artist, who was his close friend from 1983 until her death. Of her work, he wrote: "Her wispy watercolors of round-eyed children and sad faced Victorian girls, sometimes decorated with poems and splatters, brought untold pleasure to the large number of people who collected them, including Harry Belafonte, Joel Grey and Vincent Price who trooped through Indianapolis at one time or another with theatrical ventures." Born Joan T. Johnson in Swayzee, Indiana, she attended Tech High School and the old John Herron Art Institute. She was a founder of the Talbott Street Art Fair, which still attracts thousands annually. She was married for a short time to Merle Griggs. But nobody knew her by that name. She always signed her paintings J.T. Johnson. She had one son, Merle Griggs, Jr. In the 1950's she had a studio upstairs at the southwest corner of Alabama and 16th Streets that she called Belle Reve, after Blanche Dubois' lost plantation in Tennessee Williams' `A Streetcar Named Desire.' She also lived and worked in Chicago for a time and studied with Charles E. Burchfield. Joan was 54 years old at the time of her death in June of 1988. Much of this information was placed in the Congressional Record on Tuesday, March 21, 1989, by Congressman Andrew Jacobs, who was also a close friend of Joni's.

    Ripley Auctions
  • Joni T. Johnson, Indiana (1934-1988), The Way U. Sees Butterflies, 1963, watercolor on paper, 14"H x 17 3/4"W
    Mar. 02, 2024

    Joni T. Johnson, Indiana (1934-1988), The Way U. Sees Butterflies, 1963, watercolor on paper, 14"H x 17 3/4"W

    Est: $160 - $300

    Joni T. Johnson Indiana, (1934-1988) The Way U. Sees Butterflies, 1963 watercolor on paper Unsigned. Titled and dated lower. Biography from the Archives of askART: The following was submitted as a bulletin by Nelson Begley. Watercolor artist, Joni T. Johnson was a native of Swayzee, Indiana. She went to high school in Indianapolis and attended the Herron Art School. Two of her paintings are in the White House East Room. Her works have hung in 27 countries and owned by such notables as Katherine Hepburn, Harry Belafonte and Lana Turner. --------------------------------------------------------------------- The following, submitted January 2005, is from Gerald A. Notaro, University Librarian, University of South Florida St. Petersburg. His source is the artist, who was his close friend from 1983 until her death. Of her work, he wrote: "Her wispy watercolors of round-eyed children and sad faced Victorian girls, sometimes decorated with poems and splatters, brought untold pleasure to the large number of people who collected them, including Harry Belafonte, Joel Grey and Vincent Price who trooped through Indianapolis at one time or another with theatrical ventures." Born Joan T. Johnson in Swayzee, Indiana, she attended Tech High School and the old John Herron Art Institute. She was a founder of the Talbott Street Art Fair, which still attracts thousands annually. She was married for a short time to Merle Griggs. But nobody knew her by that name. She always signed her paintings J.T. Johnson. She had one son, Merle Griggs, Jr. In the 1950's she had a studio upstairs at the southwest corner of Alabama and 16th Streets that she called Belle Reve, after Blanche Dubois' lost plantation in Tennessee Williams' `A Streetcar Named Desire.' She also lived and worked in Chicago for a time and studied with Charles E. Burchfield. Joan was 54 years old at the time of her death in June of 1988. Much of this information was placed in the Congressional Record on Tuesday, March 21, 1989, by Congressman Andrew Jacobs, who was also a close friend of Joni's.

    Ripley Auctions
  • Joni T. Johnson, Indiana (1934-1988), red-haired girl with bouquet, 1969, watercolor on paper, 22"H x 15"W
    Mar. 02, 2024

    Joni T. Johnson, Indiana (1934-1988), red-haired girl with bouquet, 1969, watercolor on paper, 22"H x 15"W

    Est: $160 - $300

    Joni T. Johnson Indiana, (1934-1988) red-haired girl with bouquet, 1969 watercolor on paper Signed and dated lower right. Biography from the Archives of askART: The following was submitted as a bulletin by Nelson Begley. Watercolor artist, Joni T. Johnson was a native of Swayzee, Indiana. She went to high school in Indianapolis and attended the Herron Art School. Two of her paintings are in the White House East Room. Her works have hung in 27 countries and owned by such notables as Katherine Hepburn, Harry Belafonte and Lana Turner. --------------------------------------------------------------------- The following, submitted January 2005, is from Gerald A. Notaro, University Librarian, University of South Florida St. Petersburg. His source is the artist, who was his close friend from 1983 until her death. Of her work, he wrote: "Her wispy watercolors of round-eyed children and sad faced Victorian girls, sometimes decorated with poems and splatters, brought untold pleasure to the large number of people who collected them, including Harry Belafonte, Joel Grey and Vincent Price who trooped through Indianapolis at one time or another with theatrical ventures." Born Joan T. Johnson in Swayzee, Indiana, she attended Tech High School and the old John Herron Art Institute. She was a founder of the Talbott Street Art Fair, which still attracts thousands annually. She was married for a short time to Merle Griggs. But nobody knew her by that name. She always signed her paintings J.T. Johnson. She had one son, Merle Griggs, Jr. In the 1950's she had a studio upstairs at the southwest corner of Alabama and 16th Streets that she called Belle Reve, after Blanche Dubois' lost plantation in Tennessee Williams' `A Streetcar Named Desire.' She also lived and worked in Chicago for a time and studied with Charles E. Burchfield. Joan was 54 years old at the time of her death in June of 1988. Much of this information was placed in the Congressional Record on Tuesday, March 21, 1989, by Congressman Andrew Jacobs, who was also a close friend of Joni's.

    Ripley Auctions
  • Joni T. Johnson, Indiana (1934-1988), red haired woman with bouquet, 1975, watercolor on paper, 26 1/4"H x 21 3/4"W
    Feb. 10, 2024

    Joni T. Johnson, Indiana (1934-1988), red haired woman with bouquet, 1975, watercolor on paper, 26 1/4"H x 21 3/4"W

    Est: $200 - $400

    Joni T. Johnson Indiana, (1934-1988) red haired woman with bouquet, 1975 watercolor on paper Signed and dated lower left. Biography from the Archives of askART: The following was submitted as a bulletin by Nelson Begley. Watercolor artist, Joni T. Johnson was a native of Swayzee, Indiana. She went to high school in Indianapolis and attended the Herron Art School. Two of her paintings are in the White House East Room. Her works have hung in 27 countries and owned by such notables as Katherine Hepburn, Harry Belafonte and Lana Turner. --------------------------------------------------------------------- The following, submitted January 2005, is from Gerald A. Notaro, University Librarian, University of South Florida St. Petersburg. His source is the artist, who was his close friend from 1983 until her death. Of her work, he wrote: "Her wispy watercolors of round-eyed children and sad faced Victorian girls, sometimes decorated with poems and splatters, brought untold pleasure to the large number of people who collected them, including Harry Belafonte, Joel Grey and Vincent Price who trooped through Indianapolis at one time or another with theatrical ventures." Born Joan T. Johnson in Swayzee, Indiana, she attended Tech High School and the old John Herron Art Institute. She was a founder of the Talbott Street Art Fair, which still attracts thousands annually. She was married for a short time to Merle Griggs. But nobody knew her by that name. She always signed her paintings J.T. Johnson. She had one son, Merle Griggs, Jr. In the 1950's she had a studio upstairs at the southwest corner of Alabama and 16th Streets that she called Belle Reve, after Blanche Dubois' lost plantation in Tennessee Williams' `A Streetcar Named Desire.' She also lived and worked in Chicago for a time and studied with Charles E. Burchfield. Joan was 54 years old at the time of her death in June of 1988. Much of this information was placed in the Congressional Record on Tuesday, March 21, 1989, by Congressman Andrew Jacobs, who was also a close friend of Joni's.

    Ripley Auctions
  • Joni Johnson, Indiana (1934-1988), Two Cloaked Figures, 1961, ink wash on paper, 22 3/4"H x 18 1/4"W (sight), 31 1/2"H x 16 1/2"W (frame)
    Oct. 28, 2023

    Joni Johnson, Indiana (1934-1988), Two Cloaked Figures, 1961, ink wash on paper, 22 3/4"H x 18 1/4"W (sight), 31 1/2"H x 16 1/2"W (frame)

    Est: $200 - $400

    Joni Johnson Indiana, (1934-1988) Two Cloaked Figures, 1961 ink wash on paper signed and dated lower right. Biography from the Archives of askART: The following was submitted as a bulletin by Nelson Begley. Watercolor artist, Joni T. Johnson was a native of Swayzee, Indiana. She went to high school in Indianapolis and attended the Herron Art School. Two of her paintings are in the White House East Room. Her works have hung in 27 countries and owned by such notables as Katherine Hepburn, Harry Belafonte and Lana Turner. --------------------------------------------------------------------- The following, submitted January 2005, is from Gerald A. Notaro, University Librarian, University of South Florida St. Petersburg. His source is the artist, who was his close friend from 1983 until her death. Of her work, he wrote: "Her wispy watercolors of round-eyed children and sad faced Victorian girls, sometimes decorated with poems and splatters, brought untold pleasure to the large number of people who collected them, including Harry Belafonte, Joel Grey and Vincent Price who trooped through Indianapolis at one time or another with theatrical ventures." Born Joan T. Johnson in Swayzee, Indiana, she attended Tech High School and the old John Herron Art Institute. She was a founder of the Talbott Street Art Fair, which still attracts thousands annually. She was married for a short time to Merle Griggs. But nobody knew her by that name. She always signed her paintings J.T. Johnson. She had one son, Merle Griggs, Jr. In the 1950's she had a studio upstairs at the southwest corner of Alabama and 16th Streets that she called Belle Reve, after Blanche Dubois' lost plantation in Tennessee Williams' `A Streetcar Named Desire.' She also lived and worked in Chicago for a time and studied with Charles E. Burchfield. Joan was 54 years old at the time of her death in June of 1988. Much of this information was placed in the Congressional Record on Tuesday, March 21, 1989, by Congressman Andrew Jacobs, who was also a close friend of Joni's.

    Ripley Auctions
  • Joni Johnson, Indiana (1934-1988), Field of Blue Children on Tuesday, watercolor and ink on paper, 16"H x 26"W (sight), 21 1/2"H x 31 1/2"W
    Oct. 28, 2023

    Joni Johnson, Indiana (1934-1988), Field of Blue Children on Tuesday, watercolor and ink on paper, 16"H x 26"W (sight), 21 1/2"H x 31 1/2"W

    Est: $400 - $600

    Joni Johnson Indiana, (1934-1988) Field of Blue Children on Tuesday watercolor and ink on paper signed and inscribed upper left. Biography from the Archives of askART: The following was submitted as a bulletin by Nelson Begley. Watercolor artist, Joni T. Johnson was a native of Swayzee, Indiana. She went to high school in Indianapolis and attended the Herron Art School. Two of her paintings are in the White House East Room. Her works have hung in 27 countries and owned by such notables as Katherine Hepburn, Harry Belafonte and Lana Turner. --------------------------------------------------------------------- The following, submitted January 2005, is from Gerald A. Notaro, University Librarian, University of South Florida St. Petersburg. His source is the artist, who was his close friend from 1983 until her death. Of her work, he wrote: "Her wispy watercolors of round-eyed children and sad faced Victorian girls, sometimes decorated with poems and splatters, brought untold pleasure to the large number of people who collected them, including Harry Belafonte, Joel Grey and Vincent Price who trooped through Indianapolis at one time or another with theatrical ventures." Born Joan T. Johnson in Swayzee, Indiana, she attended Tech High School and the old John Herron Art Institute. She was a founder of the Talbott Street Art Fair, which still attracts thousands annually. She was married for a short time to Merle Griggs. But nobody knew her by that name. She always signed her paintings J.T. Johnson. She had one son, Merle Griggs, Jr. In the 1950's she had a studio upstairs at the southwest corner of Alabama and 16th Streets that she called Belle Reve, after Blanche Dubois' lost plantation in Tennessee Williams' `A Streetcar Named Desire.' She also lived and worked in Chicago for a time and studied with Charles E. Burchfield. Joan was 54 years old at the time of her death in June of 1988. Much of this information was placed in the Congressional Record on Tuesday, March 21, 1989, by Congressman Andrew Jacobs, who was also a close friend of Joni's.

    Ripley Auctions
  • Joni T. Johnson (American, 1933-1988) Mixed Media
    Sep. 26, 2023

    Joni T. Johnson (American, 1933-1988) Mixed Media

    Est: $50 - $500

    DESCRIPTION: Mixed media on paper artwork by Joni T. Johnson (American, 1933 - 1988) depicting a woman and child. Signed, dated and possibly entitled on reverse, along with a sketch of a basket of flowers. Provenance: Purchased from the estate of William Sablon, a well-known antiques dealer in Montclair, New Jersey during the 1960s, 70s & 80s. CIRCA: 1961 ORIGIN: American DIMENSIONS: (Artwork) H: 17.25" W: 11.5" (Board) H: 25.25" W: 19.5" - CONDITION: Great condition. See lot description for details on item condition. More detailed condition requests can be obtained upon sms or email.

    Akiba Galleries
Lots Per Page:

Popular Artists

Devices

Get Invaluable on Your Phone

Download the app via text link to get instantly notified if you’re outbid and receive auction reminders so you never miss out!

Bid On-the-Go!

Download the Invaluable app and never miss an auction from your iOS or Android device.

App Store badgeGoogle Play badge
Invaluable Logo

As the world's leading online auction marketplace, thousands of auction houses use Invaluable to deepen relationships with millions of clients around the world. Stay connected to the things you love with curated items and auctions sent to your inbox.

You can unsubscribe at any time. View ourPrivacy Policy.

© 1986-2026 Invaluable, LLC. and participating auction houses. All Rights Reserved.

TermsSubscription AgreementPrivacy PolicyCopyrightGDPR InfoPrivacy ChoiceYour Privacy ChoicesSite Map