Art meets Mediterranean in area artist Liselott Johnsson’s latest exhibition, an abstract art installation inspired by Norse mythology and the goddess of the sun.

But rather than seeking to depict the mythology itself, Johnsson seeks instead to bring the works to life through the feelings and the plight of the human condition that they convey.

The project, titled “SOL” in tribute to the sun goddess of the same name, opens Friday at Town 220 Restaurant, 220 W. Washington St.

Johnsson, a resident of Madison, says she was inspired by poems of 13th century Norse literature, particularly Sol, the goddess who travels across the sky in her golden chariot, pulled by her horses, Arvak and Alsvid. She said the very important works carry numerous similarities throughout regarding the human condition.

“What I wanted to depict was the feeling of traveling with her [Sol] across the sky,” said Johnsson.

She said the works in the collection debuting Friday convey what it may have felt like to travel with the goddess on her voyage.

“They will show an abstract representation of how I would think it would feel to travel with her.”

Johnsson said the idea to collaborate with Town 220 on the exhibit came about through conversations with the restaurant’s owners.

The collection includes 16 large pieces, some 6 1/2 by 6 1/2 feet.

“Because my paintings are large in scale … after they looked at it, we decided to collaborate on this exhibit,” said Johnsson.

To coincide with the opening, Town 220 chef Francisco de la Torre will prepare a sun-inspired special menu featuring some of the diverse and intense flavors of the Mediterranean.

“He has a passion for Mediterranean cuisine,” said Johnsson of de la Torre’s culinary palate.

A professionally trained architect, Johnsson went to school in Paris, and has been painting for a number of years. Her art process, she says, involves a meditation whereas she does not utilize brushes but instead throws paint onto canvas.

“It’s more of a dynamic process,” she said. “If I make a mistake, I have to start all over again.”

She said the process allows her work to take on its own creative life with a “certain kinetic quality” in the paint.

Johnsson says she hopes her upcoming audience will feel the color and depth of the work.

“I hope that they will feel something,” she said. “I hope they feel the energy that’s in the work.”

The art exhibit opening reception will take place from 6 p.m. through 8 p.m. Wine and hors d’oeuvres will be served. Dinner reservations for the evening are recommended.

The exhibit and the event is a coordinated effort between the Madison Artists Guild, Town 220 Restaurant, and the artist. Part of art sales proceeds will benefit the Madison Artists Guild. “Sol” will be on view through Feb. 7. For dinner reservations and information contact Town 220 Restaurant at (706) 752-1445.

For more on Johnsson’s work, visit her Web site at www.liselottjohnsson.com.