The Garden of Humanity

    Welcome to the 'Garden of Humanity' exhibit. The paintings, prints and drawings of original art are inspired by the writings of the Bahá'í Faith and have been displayed at numerous venues in the Midwestern US since 1995. Simply click on Galleries to enter the first of the 12 Galleries and see the 27 pieces comprised of paintings, prints, and drawings, and read the writings that inspired their creation. The writings are of three of the Central Figures of the Bahá'í Faith, Bahá'u'lláh the Prophet Founder, 'Abdul'-Bahá his son and the Center the Covenant, and Shoghi Effendi, the Grandson of 'Abdul'-Bahá and the Guardian of the Bahá'í Faith. If you would like first view the thumbnails of the pieces, click on Exhibit Preview, and then click on the galleries to enlarge. A description of the exhibit and its purpose can be viewed by clicking on About the Garden of Humanity.

    If you would want to learn more about the Bahá'í Faith, you are invited to investigate this new world religion by clicking on About the Baha'i Faith Links and reading about the Faith's Central Figures, it's basic beliefs, and the World Wide Baha'i Community. You are also invited to read the words of 'Abdul'-Bahá's inspiring piece about the Unity of Mankind by clicking on Beauty and Harmony of Diversity.

    An essay about the arts and how they communicate and create bonds between the individual artist and the viewer, written by the artist with reflections on his own personal experiences, is accessed by clicking on Essay Connections. To view photos of past exhibits and learn of previous venues, and to read what has said about the exhibit, click on Exhibit Views, History & Testimonials. To learn about the requirements of hosting the exhibit by individual Bahá'í Communities and other groups, click on Exhibit Availability. The Artist's Statement and information regarding James A. Johnston can be accessed by clicking on Artist's Statement and Resume. An email message can be composed and sent to the artist by clicking on Contact James A. Johnston.

Enjoy your visit at the 'Garden of Humanity' Exhibit.

The art of 'The Garden of Humanity' is dedicated to the loving memory of Dr. Garreta Busey, who taught me about the Bahá'í Faith when I was a student studying architecture at the University of Illinois at Champaign Urbana in 1967. She was the advisor to the U of I Bahá'í Club and through her warmth, generosity, and wisdom, guided many young people to the path of spirituality. I'll never forget one of her insights: she couldn't imagine a manifestation of God without a sense of humor.
I consider myself fortunate to have known her.

Jim Johnston