January 2008 artist: Rhett Johnson

"Spray paint and Sharpies"
Paintings by Rhett Johnson

Rhett Johnson, 19, of Chicago, is showing at Noir beginning with Friday night's opening reception.



Rhett grew up around his family's lumber yard, with lots of scrap wood, leftover paint and spray cans to use. His art began there, but has developed from odd pieces and shapes to finished forms and uniform shapes. He figures that the bold, graphic nature of his work rubbed off on him from pop art and cartoons he was exposed to as a kid.

"It would be presumptuous and ludicrous for me to wax and wane philosophical at my age; let me simply say that painting is what I do. Painting is what I have always done and it is what I shall continue to do."

In his show at Noir, Rhett is making groupings of paintings from several series (robots, portraits, pandas, birds, wagons, elephants, etc). Some of the works show how the subjects of those paintings later combine into one piece.

Robots are stand-ins for humans that allow him to convey iconic emotions. The latest series he has here -- birds -- were inspired by the onset of fall.

"People always seem to be interested in the process. They're often surprised to find out that the backgrounds of my work are spray paint." As a medium, he says it's one he's super-familiar and comfortable with.

"I am pleased to be here and appreciate this opportunity to display my work. Be assured that I am always accessible and happy to answer any questions regarding my work."

Rhett Johnson's Web site is at Rhettart.com.