Travis Johnson
Artist Statement: My question, "Who was violent on your behalf? is a question that can be used as an apparatus for discourse in and around the problematic relationships with state sanctioned violence. I am interested in a discussion that can lead to an in-depth look at the mode in which violence is cultivated and utilized as a fundamental function in our culture. I am looking at the narratives that have been placed around violence to justify policing and the sustainability of this violence. I am also thinking about the historic violent actions taken by the oppressed and the oppressor. I see this question as a catalyst to point to accountability for what we accept in our culture. This question can serve as a personal question of self-contemplation or a group discussion.
Artist Bio: Travis Johnson has spent the last 3 decades developing his craft as a creative and uses his art to explore the human experience by touching on the whimsical, silly, serious, and sometimes painful side of life. He uses the subtle nuances of classic western world iconography to tell a highly illustrated and visually rich narrative.
His main artistic inspirations are: Bill Watterson, Justin Bua, Mark Bradford, Lawrence Wiener, Kerry James Marshall, Kara Walker, Michael Hafftka, Bill Turner
Along with his visual art, Travis has spent the last 25 years singing throughout the US on various tours with his family singing group Fivacious. He continues to share his music as a solo act through out the US.
Travis was born in Southern California, where he grew up with his 4 siblings in the Mojave Desert. He is currently based out of Olympia, WA.
Follow Travis Johnson on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/tijstudios42/