Idaho Artist Aaron Johnson Brings His Gouache Paintings to Gallery East

The exhibition runs from February 3 -27.

Published on Feb. 6, 2026

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An exhibition entitled 'Missing the Present,' by Idaho artist Aaron Cordell Johnson, is on display at Utah State University Eastern's Gallery East in the Central Instruction Building (CIB). Johnson's paintings, created with the medium of gouache (opaque watercolor), depict various settings or locations in the artist's neighboring Palouse Region of Idaho and explore 'ephemeral moments in everyday life' and the 'beauty' and 'impermanence' of the natural world.

Why it matters

Johnson's exhibition at Gallery East provides an opportunity for the public to experience the artist's unique perspective on the natural landscapes of the Palouse Region through his use of the gouache medium. The exhibition highlights the significance of observing and appreciating the fleeting moments and details of the natural world that often go unnoticed.

The details

Johnson's paintings are described as 'straightforward—seemingly effortless—applications of paint but full of color and detail.' Using 'swipes and dabs of the brush,' the artist is able to capture the 'fleeting moments of light and billowing clouds over on the landscape.' The exhibition aims to 'heighten our awareness of the significance of our surroundings, such as the way a cloud floats, how a dead tree's branches pierce the sky, or the brilliant colors of the evening sky.'

  • The exhibition runs from February 3 -27.
  • A reception for this exhibit is scheduled for February 12, from 6-8 p.m.

The players

Aaron Cordell Johnson

An Idaho artist whose exhibition 'Missing the Present' is on display at Gallery East. He uses the medium of gouache (opaque watercolor) to depict landscapes and natural scenes from the Palouse Region of Idaho, exploring themes of 'ephemeral moments in everyday life' and the 'beauty' and 'impermanence' of the natural world.

Gallery East

An art gallery located at Utah State University Eastern in the Central Instruction Building (CIB). The gallery hosts exhibitions throughout the academic year and is open to the public.

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What they’re saying

“The paintings I create are the result of time, searching for just the right cloud formations, watching the colors, and experiencing what it means to be in an environment. Through these experiences I use color, brushstrokes, drawing and texture to express the lay of the land and its effect on me.”

— Aaron Cordell Johnson, Artist (castlecountryradio.com)

“This series explores ephemeral moments in everyday life—recognizing their beauty while embracing their impermanence.”

— Aaron Cordell Johnson, Artist (castlecountryradio.com)

“As an avid nature lover and passionate painter, I hope to use my work to heighten our awareness of the significance of our surroundings, such as the way a cloud floats, how a dead tree's branches pierce the sky, or the brilliant colors of the evening sky. Each painting is the culmination of absorbing, listening, feeling and observing my surroundings.”

— Aaron Cordell Johnson, Artist (castlecountryradio.com)

What’s next

A reception for this exhibit is scheduled for February 12, from 6-8 p.m. Students, Faculty, and interested public are welcome to attend.

The takeaway

Aaron Cordell Johnson's exhibition at Gallery East provides a unique opportunity for the public to experience the natural landscapes of the Palouse Region through the artist's distinctive use of the gouache medium. The exhibition encourages viewers to slow down and appreciate the fleeting moments and details of the natural world that often go unnoticed in everyday life.