College philanthropist and artist d’Elaine Johnson hosting final exhibition at Graphite Arts Center

“Protectress,” “Grotto Spring,” and “Great Mother Goddess” are among the pieces that are part of the d’Elaine Herard Johnson Retrospective: Goddesses on display from Dec. 5-Jan. 3 at Graphite Arts Center. (Photo courtesy of d’Elaine Johnson)

After an illustrious career spanning eight decades, 93-year-old artist d’Elaine Herard Johnson is hosting her final exhibition at Graphite Arts Center from Dec. 5 through Jan. 3. The show, which is co-sponsored by Graphite Arts Center and Edmonds College, will feature 22 pieces inspired by goddesses. 

The exhibition will be open to the public every Friday and Saturday from 12-5 p.m. (202 Main Street in Edmonds). A private opening reception will be held Saturday, Dec. 6, from 5:30-7 p.m., followed by a public reception from 7-8:30 p.m.

“Her life revolves around art, so it’s great that we can honor her impact on the Edmonds community,” said Mary Olsen, owner of Graphite Art Center and founder of Art Start NW. “She started her career in Edmonds, so this will be a culmination of her career to date.”

While the exhibition marks the last time her work will be showcased, she is by no means retiring. She continues to work full-time, five days a week, on her art. Since the start of 2025, Johnson has completed 27 original works of art. “A paintbrush will be in my hand until my hand can't hold it anymore,” she defiantly quipped when asked when she plans on retiring.  

Johnson, whose sprawling estate on the Edmonds bluff overlooks the Puget Sound, will leave an incredible donation to Edmonds College. Her property and house, which includes her personal art studio, a framing workshop, a gallery, and a collection of over 1,200 original paintings, are held in a trust that will be entirely donated to the college upon her passing. The proceeds from her estate will create dedicated scholarships for future art and horticulture students.

“The generous donation from d’Elaine Johnson will create a profound impact on future generations of Edmonds College students,” said President Dr. Amit B. Singh. “We are privileged to accept the great responsibility of being stewards of her beautiful artwork, ensuring her legacy remains in the spotlight and continues to inspire our community.”

Johnson wants to give aspiring art students the hope she lacked as a young student: the chance to pursue their dream of becoming an artist. “The college is my family,” she said. “I just want (students) to know that I gave them just enough to free themselves from a static life and that they can pursue something they are passionate about.”