Butt Johnson, is a Brooklyn based artist at the forefront of artwork executed in ballpoint pen. His elaborate drawings recall the painstaking work of Baroque and Renaissance artists who worked in metal point. Johnson is inspired by the iconography and visual leitmotifs of the past which serve as a juxtaposition of pop culture overlaying these traditional forms. Essentially, Johnson has re-worked European engraving and etching traditions within a modern American cultural context.
Butt Johnson, Mario Patron Saint of Brooklyn
For example the juxtaposition of Islamic or Persian ornamentation and car bombed vehicles. Johnson’s work is executed by pen onto two- ply bristol board . Recently he has been drawing onto mylar which gives gives some of the same sensuous qualities as the etchings of the old masters. Each of Johnson’s drawings requires two to three months completion time.
Albrecht Durer, Adam and Eve
Johnson’s ”meticulous drawings” show an exceptional draughtsmanship and an acute sensitivity in order to slowly build up the tonal differences in his work. Even great artists such as Michelangelo were considered only average as meticulous silverpoint artists since his his mastery of paint onto canvas was considered to be too heavy handed a technique to be transfered effectively to this intricate medium.
Johnson’s best work is characterized by the luminous transitions, eccentric shapes and abrupt changes in direction that the Masters were known for.
Butt Johnson, Bus Bomb
COMMENTS
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Dave
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Dave
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Thanks for the comment. We try to find new ideas and interpretations etc. to keep it interesting.
Dave
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Dave
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Dave
Thanks
Hey! Muchas gracias!
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alot of people like what this artist does. It bears closer examination of sorts….
I recently came across your blog and have been reading along. I thought I would leave my first comment. I don’t know what to say except that I have enjoyed reading. Nice blog. I will keep visiting this blog very often.
thanks for reading and will do the best to keep things fresh and topical
dave
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doing our best. Not crazy about being cool or hip, but appreciate the compliment.
Most excellent artworks and topic. Pleased keep up the good work. Cheers, Jerry Stith