Raised in Germany, Johan would leave at only eighteen years old to escape difficult times and seek out a life of freedom in the US. Arriving in New York with only a few dollars, he would be taken in by a caring family who would steer him in the direction of Oregon. Johan spent much of his life in Ashland starting in high school. An eccentric artistic spirit who has left an indelible mark on the Ashland community. Johan would own and operate a controversial art gallery Nuandart stirring the pot as well as sporting his unusual collection of automobiles ranging from an old fire engine and ambulance to his flame throwing firebirbird with steer horns on the roof. A well known participant in the Burningman project for over two decades, Johan was one of the pioneers in the dome building business who provided domes all over the world through his company Dome Guys.