Raised in a rural farming community, Johanna was inspired by her mother, Vivienne, to explore her creativity. After moving to Dunedin in the early 2000s, she left art school to establish an independent studio practice, primarily at Dowling St Studios. Johanna now lives near Dunedin, at the foot of the Rock & Pillar Range. Johanna holds a Master's certificate in Ren Xue, a Level 4 in Tikanga, and a Level 4 certificate in Museum Practice. She also has experience in horticulture, stonemasonry, farming, and restoration.