Artist Eric Johnson: Maker of Minimalist, Sensual, Clean and Sinuous Lines

Eric's early years ended up being very influential to his career and we begin there because, not only did he suggest it, but the specific experiences he cited, and which we discuss, map his trajectory toward the language that speaks through his works today. Eric attended LA Valley College in San Fernando Valley, where he met Fidel Danieli, an early writer for Artforum magazine. Danieli became an influential figure to Eric. He knew all of the leading artists of the time, many of whom were in the Light and Space movement like DeWain Valentine, Peter Alexander and Bob Irwin. He also knew Ed Ruche.Meeting Danieli was a significant event in the young artist's life who's advice echoed Eric's father’s belief.“He said son, go find the most important person in the field that you're doing no matter who they are. Find them and work for them for free, befriend them. Do whatever you can to learn what they know. And it was invaluable," said Eric.Eric's work is a remarkable fusion of unconventional elements: automotive tools, techniques, and materials. These form the cornerstone of his unique style as a sculptor. He masterfully blends the structures of wooden architecture with the fluidity of biomorphic forms, resulting in a contrast that captures the essence of life and movement. Beyond this, Eric has mastered the art of incorporating resin, using it to infuse visual depth into his work. The result is a blend of surface and subsurface fluid color, a technique that has earned him respect in the art world.In this episode we discuss Eric's career as well as his process and his motivation for masterfully creating beautiful form.