MELROSE — Local artist Brian K. Johnson is stepping back into the spotlight this month at the Arts Collaborative of Wakefield’s annual fall art exhibit where he will debut four new works among an impressive lineup of 37 artists.
Known for combining wit with inventive approaches, Johnson couldn’t resist a lighthearted jab at himself, “Don’t be suspicious that they lowered their standards to let me in,” he joked, describing his participation as a “desperate attempt for more attention.” A previous work The Dodo which debuted in Wakefield was later selected for display at a gallery in Washington, D.C. marking a notable milestone in his emerging-artist career.
This year, Johnson will be exhibiting four new works: Peace Piece, plastic toy soldiers melted into peace symbol; Monster, after Garin Boyd; The Scarlet Letter, Chapter 5; and Tim Berners-Lee rendered in HTML. Johnson’s work often blends playful experimentation with conceptual depth, inviting viewers to engage closely and discover unexpected details whether it’s a reinterpretation of a classic portrait done with typography, a literary fragment or a reflection on war and play. The Peace Piece is listed for sale at “Name your price” because as Johnson says, “You can’t put a price on peace.”
The Arts Collaborative of Wakefield’s fall show themed Artober runs at the Albion Cultural Exchange, 9 Albion St., Wakefield. Viewing hours are Fridays, October 10, 17 and 24 from 5 to 8 p.m. and Saturdays, October 11 and 18 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Visitors are encouraged to stop by, enjoy the wide variety of works on display and meet the artists. And buy something.