NSYMCA Welcomes Back Artist Lois Johnson to their Community Gallery in October

Art for sale and a portion of the proceeds benefit the NSYMCA Visual Arts

By North Suburban YMCA, Neighbor

Oct 1, 2026 3:18 PM CDT

This post was contributed by a community member.

North Suburban YMCA’s Community Gallery for October features artist Lois Johnson, this painting is named Old Fashioned, Oil and acrylic on canvas (Lois J.)

Northbrook, IL – October 2026 – The North Suburban YMCA Community Gallery is pleased to welcome back artist Lois Johnson for a special October exhibit featuring her captivating oil and acrylic paintings inspired by nature and cultures from around the world. Johnson, who was previously featured in the gallery last winter, returns with a new collection of artwork that reflects her lifelong passion for cultural exploration and artistic expression.

"My inspirations for my paintings stem from ethnographic studies, as well as from other artists," said Johnson. "I wish to convey these experiences in my art by emphasizing the ideals of harmony and balance without uniformity."

Johnson grew up in a remote village in Michigan's Upper Peninsula and spent much of her professional life researching the local cultures, traditions, and customs of people throughout North and South America, as well as Europe. Her artwork draws from these experiences, blending observations of nature and humanity into vibrant, thought-provoking pieces.

The NSYMCA Community Gallery celebrates the diverse talents of artists living and working throughout Chicago's northern suburbs through monthly exhibitions and pop-up displays that are free and open to the public. Artwork featured in the gallery is available for purchase, with a portion of all sales benefiting the North Suburban YMCA's Visual Arts Department.

The exhibit will be on display throughout the month of October during regular YMCA hours.

For more information about the NSYMCA Community Gallery or visual arts programming, please contact Megan Vazquez at mvazquez@nsymca.org or 847-272-7250.

About the North Suburban YMCA

The North Suburban YMCA services Northbrook and 14 surrounding communities with programs and tools that help its residents become healthier, more connected, and confident, ensuring that everyone, regardless of age, income, or background, has the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive. The NSYMCA focuses on Youth Development, Healthy Living, and Social Responsibility and is a charitable organization, inclusive and welcoming to all in our community. Learn more at NSYMCA.org.

North Suburban YMCA’s Community Gallery for October features artist Lois Johnson, this painting is named Light on the Water, Oil and acrylic on canvas (Lois J.)

North Suburban YMCA’s Community Gallery for October features artist Lois Johnson, this painting is named Cat & Flower, Oil and acrylic on canvas (Lois J.)

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