About the Artist

John Potter grew up in the Upper Great Lakes region, spending his formative years immersed in the lush forests of the Great Northwoods, where he developed a profound love for the natural world that continues to inspire his work today.

His artistic journey began in childhood and led him to Utah State University, where he earned degrees in Painting and Illustration. After a successful 20-year career as an award-winning illustrator, John transitioned to painting full-time in 2002.

John describes his work as a spiritual connection:

“Painting for me is a form of communication with our Creator, and of gratitude as well; for the life and beauty brought forth on this Earth, especially in our remaining wild places. Because of this, I feel a sense of responsibility for the privilege of painting, for the gift of the craft. Many painters are out there trying to be heard - I paint to listen.” 

Often painting en plein air, John brings his small outdoor studies home, where they are then used as reference to create his larger studio works. Working directly from Nature, he firmly believes in the all-pervading Divinity found in the Natural World, and is always striving for an honest expression of light and color. John spends many hours in the field, observing and studying light, mood, atmosphere, the land and sky. He carries paints and a sketchbook whenever possible, travelling extensively – but his favorite subjects remain the rugged mountain scenery of the American West.

“When I step outside to paint, my intent is to observe and to borrow from Nature, in order to orchestrate a moment of light, color, and my own emotional and intellectual responses to these on canvas," states John. "My hope is that the viewer may see the world through my eyes for a moment, and gain an appreciation for the quiet dignity to be found in the Wild, and hopefully, then, share a desire to help preserve this good Earth that belongs to us all, and to our children’s children."

Potter has participated in shows and exhibitions throughout the U.S. and abroad, and his work hangs in private collections across the country and around the world.

John maintains his home and studio in Red Lodge, Montana.

Video courtesy of Greys River Photography

Collaborations, Speaking and Workshops

John is available for collaborations, workshops, and speaking engagements focused on art, storytelling, and cultural revitalization. With firsthand experience and a strong commitment to creative education, John connects with audiences of all backgrounds through thoughtful dialogue and visual expression.

Opportunities include:

• Cross-cultural art residencies
• Speaker engagements and hands-on workshops for youth and adults
• Public art commissions and installations
• Collaborations with museums, nonprofits, and cultural organizations
• For inquiries, please contact:

John Potter Studio
johnpotterstudio.com

Awards

• Best of Show Award, 2025 - Buffalo Bill Show & Sale, Cody WY
• People's Choice Award, Quick Draw - 2024
  • Buffalo Bill Show Buffalo Bill Center of the West, Cody, WY
• Founder's Award of Merit - 2017
  • Bighorn Rendezvous, Northwest Rendezvous Group of Artists Show, The Brinton Museum, Big Horn, WY
• Legacy Award - 2010 (Museum Purchase)
  • Western Rendezvous of Art, Northwest Rendezvous Group of Artists Show, Montana Historical Society, Helena, MT
• -   Robert Kuhn Award - 2008 (best submission in artists’ sketches),
  • Western Visions Miniatures and More Show, National Museum of Wildlife Art, Jackson, WY 
• -   Featured Artist, Award of Excellence 2005
  • RMPAP National Exhibition, Jackson, WY

Past Events

• Solo Exhibit & Speaker, MacLean Literary Festival, Dana Gallery, Missoula, MT - 2024
• Yellowstone Discovery Wolf Presentations (Bi-weekly), Yellowstone Park, WY, Summer - 2024
• 235 Holiday Miniature Show, Frame of Reference Gallery, Whitefish, MT - 2024 - 2025
• Brinton Holiday Miniature Show, Brinton Museum, Big Horn, WY - 2024 - 2025
• Small Works Great Wonders, Oklahoma City, OK - 2015-2025
• BAM 89ers Show, Bozeman Art Museum, Bozeman, MT - 2024
• Bighorn Rendezvous Show, Brinton Museum, Big Horn, WY - 2015-2025
• Miniature Art Auction, Bozeman Art Museum, Bozeman, MT - 2024
• Art in the Beartooths, Red Lodge, MT - 2010-2025
• Buffalo Bill Art Show & Sale, Cody, WY - 2010-2025
• Western Visions Show,  National Museum of Wildlife Art, Jackson, WY - 2004-2025