Tuesday, December 13, 2011

2011 Artist Blog - Entry #13

Mother and Child, 1989, Bronze, 7'




Psyche and Cupid, 1984, Bronze, 22" and 71"
Prodigal Son, 1986, Bronze, Life-size





















Barry Woods Johnston is a contemporary figurative sculptor currently based in Baltimore, Maryland. His works are one of a kind, really. Since his style is expressionistic, his sculptures are full of life and energy, and stand out like no other. Expression, gesture, and pose are what makes them so unique. Their majestic designs are filled with motion and energy and play a huge role in representing an essence of true human beauty within. All of his works are casted in bronze with the exception of five sculptures. A lot of Johnston's sculptures are in various museums throughout the world (ex. Vatican) and the work posted here shows us clearly why they chose his style. The style is also unique because his extraordinary figurative work evokes life at its highest point. Most of his sculptures are either in action or are ready to be. Dancing pose helps to bring out that powerful emotion of freedom and beauty as well as a need for adventure, in my opinion. It is a little hard to explain plus the fact that every individual will view it in their own particular way. Due to the amount of gesture and lightness, Johnston's style reminds me of Hellenistic/Early Imperial period when it was all about emotion. The rendering of the figures is simply marvelous, the effect must be heightened when viewed in person. Souls of these sculptures seem to almost break out of the bronze and go about their business. A really striking effect that not many sculptors achieve due to the difference in styles. (word count - 257)

Dance of Life, 1998, Bronze, 19"x 7"x7"

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