Justin Johnson

I created my first body of mixed media artwork at the end of 2015, which was one of the toughest periods in my life of being a rough place financially, environmentally, and overall. I was given the the test and oppurtunity to create works from a new lane than I was familiar with (previously only working in photography and film) but curious about in a matter of a few weeks to be presented in a solo exhibition at a pop-up presented by influential associates of mine. In September 2015, I had my first exhibition of the works titled, Memories of Ambivalence. 
These artworks were created and inspired by transition. What you see is what I have pulled from this progressive moment of my life. My vision has transcended photography and film onto canvas. I owe my growth of expression to my unforgettable conversation with artist Radcliffe Bailey. Mr. Cliffe encouraged me to add more elements to my work and segue into fine art. My frustration with producing linear ideas lead me to embrace my complex creations. Mr. Cliffe explained to me that an artist’s way of thinking is different from others - we work in layers of thoughts and experiences. I began to bring elements together that represent began to bring elements together that represent my consciousness at a given moment and relinquished rational thought. Thus, pushing me to make pieces that represented my world, my experiences, and most importantly my thoughts. Thoughts of a lost religion, a lost practice,  a lost cultural appreciation, a lost family foundation - a loss of identity.  Betrayal, pain, confusion, and an overall lack of a stable human life on American soil, even after slavery, juxtaposed against my feelings of resilience.