Getting began within the arts: 5 questions with . . . photographer Nadine Johnson

by Tom Lagasse | Bristol Poet Laureate | March 2, 2026 |

Nadine Johnson moved to Bristol a couple of decade in the past with earlier houses in New York City and Miami Beach. Although she has a level in social work, Nadine veered into entrepreneurship after touring to the Southwest the place she fell in love with the artwork and crafts of the area. This grew into two Native American artwork and artifact retailers in NYC and Miami. After her retail expertise, Nadine went into the TV/Film enterprise in Miami. Upon transferring again north, she labored at Bristol ARC, coming full circle and returning to her unique curiosity in social work.

1. Why do you create?

I’ve at all times had a inventive facet and have loved being round inventive folks. It wasn’t till I discovered pictures that I discovered my good type of expression. I discover the inventive course of places you within the second and with a world filled with distractions, I can’t consider a greater place to be. I’m completely satisfied to bear witness to the wonder in our world.

2. Where do you get your concepts?

Mother Nature. It’s countless. We reside on a fantastic planet.

3. Does dwelling in Bristol have any affect in your artwork?  If not, what does?  

I wouldn’t say dwelling in Bristol, per se. Not being overly acquainted with the realm, getting on the highway with my digital camera has been the proper and most enjoyable strategy to be taught the lay of the land. There is way more hidden magnificence than I spotted. The first place I fell in love photographing was Old Marsh Pond. I’ve tons of, if not 1000’s, of images in all seasons, together with some with auroras.

The Sessions Building on Riverside has at all times intrigued me, and I made certain to catch some images of the outside after I noticed it was being labored on.

And, in fact, Birch Pond, and the Hoppers. An actual jewel for the digital camera.

4. Tell us about your course of from concept to completed product?  

For my composite images, I gather parts like items of a puzzle, then I’ve enjoyable with it. The course of for the composite images entails taking images of parts that catch my eye, i.e. architectural particulars, macro, flowers, and many others. They develop into a part of a “toolbox” which I draw on to mix by means of varied enhancing processes. I’m nonetheless studying and am often on a number of studying curves at any given time.

5. What recommendation would you give somebody simply beginning out?

From a private favourite, Joseph Campbell, “I say, follow your bliss and don’t be afraid, and doors will open where you didn’t know they were going to be.”

---

Before you go!

Support native information in Bristol, CT

The Bristol Edition is an impartial, nonprofit on-line newspaper devoted to holding Bristol knowledgeable and engaged. Your donation helps us ship significant tales, spotlight native voices, and foster a stronger neighborhood. Believe within the energy of native information? Support us as we speak!

---

---

Related