Montana artist John Potter does more than paint lovely landscapes and realistic wildlife. His art invites viewers to listen to the voice of the earth inside them. “The deeper message I hope to convey is this: Take the time to nurture and nourish your senses, your heart, and your spirit in the quiet dignity to be found in wild places and wild things,” he says.

Potter isn’t a household name—yet—but he probably should be. His paintings ostensibly portray wildlife and nature. But, look closer. He’s not handing out trophy images of animals, birds, or benign landscapes; he’s offering a revelation. Notice how your eye moves through the painting, and you start to see the power, the beauty—the essence—that connects humans to nature.

John Potter

Coming Storm
Oil
16″x12″
“I’m so blessed to live in the shadow of the Beartooth Mountains in Montana. I’ve seen and encountered dozens of grizzlies by spending time here in this sprawling, magnificent wilderness in my ‘backyard.’ Bears occupy a place of honor, respect, and admiration in my heart—culturally, spiritually, and personally. Here, I wanted to emphasize the Great Bear’s spiritual strength by setting the storm behind it, while the Balsamroot flowers speak of grace and beauty—and provide a nice, complementary foil, as well.”

John Potter

Bighorn Thunder
Oil
20″x30″
“I have been vilified in the past by some, who would accuse me of being a ‘morning person.’ This allegation is totally unfounded. I am actually a ‘morning light person.’ It’s not my fault that the best, not-to-be-missed light occurs early in the morning. It has also been alleged that I love thunderstorms, clouds, and the sky. Pure rubbish.”