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Erik Johnsen
Study of Light and Life

2018

About the Item

Signed and dated 2018 His father nearly sold 5-year- old Erik Johnsen in 1965 for $600. What followed was a chaotic journey into beatings, sexual abuse and groundlessness. Moving constantly, he was enrolled in 27 schools before the end of high school. Erik embarked on a shambling course of self-medication, addiction and despair. Self-destruction and thoughts of inadequacy were the constants in his life. For many people, this post-traumatic stress narrative ends in an institution or in a morgue. Ultimately, Erik Johnsen’s story is one of hard-fought redemption. Creating art was his refuge in the maelstrom that defined his existence. He worked at his craft for years and created objects of beauty and power. He walked the paths of brilliance and self-destruction with a numb ease that accompanies passion. Early successes led to recognition, crisis and more recognition. The early years were dotted with missed opportunities, but eventually he found stability with his wife Ruth. Much of Erik time is spent producing architectural elements, accent art and amazing beasts. By creating art that people can touch, he reaches those who are often lost in the conventional world. No one is unmoved by his art; no one simply walks by. People linger, they touch, they chat. Erik has committed significant time and money in the last decade to nonprofit organizations to foster the development of the arts, and is now pursuing a more directed approach. His latest project is “Museum Beyond Walls” to provide art education and assistance to emerging artists in remote locations. Erik has won Sand Sculpting competitions in Miami Beach, Delray Beach and Fort Lauderdale Beach. He even showed remarkable talent when taking a U.S. military entrance test on assembling boxes, he achieved the 2nd highest score recorded at that time. His work in over 30 theatrical productions includes Broadway productions of Disney’s Lion King and Mary Poppins.
  • Creator:
    Erik Johnsen (1960, American)
  • Creation Year:
    2018
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 65 in (165.1 cm)Width: 12 in (30.48 cm)Depth: 12 in (30.48 cm)
  • Medium:
  • Movement & Style:
  • Period:
  • Condition:
  • Gallery Location:
    Saratoga Springs, NY
  • Reference Number:
    1stDibs: LU17022507493
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