Seeing Rashid Johnson

In this episode of the Seeing series, Carrie chats with Rashid Johnson, a Brooklyn-based contemporary artist. With an innovative blend of multimedia techniques and a profound exploration of identity, history, and cultural memory, Johnson has redefined boundaries, glass ceilings and so much more. From his iconic "Anxious Men" series to his immersive installations exploring themes of race, belonging, and the human condition, Johnson's work challenges viewers to confront uncomfortable truths and engage in critical dialogue. From Carrie: "I've known Rashid Johnson for almost 20 years. We did a show together when we were babies. So sitting down with him after all this time, it's not easy. When you know someone so well, it's hard to do the whole like professional interview thing. But what I so loved about this particular conversation is what dawned on me as I sat with him. And maybe this seems fairly obvious, but it's the evolution in Rashid's work, or project as he calls it, that's mind blowing. He's always centered what he does on his identity as a black man. But the evolution of his work is what makes it noteworthy and deserving of the canon. Rashid has moved from self or direct representation in his photography, which I do still love, to these more abstracted realities and emotions. The work has become so much more universal as a result. But what I really love about it is that the work has grown with him through anxiety and fatherhood and husbanding and even his great success. And as a result, it's always of this moment. It's not nostalgic. It's so very present. And that's likely what's made him so successful. And you see this in his most recent painting. There's an undoing in this latest series. A corporeality. Skeletons exposed. Raw. Open. I feel so of this time and they brought me to my knees." Thanks for listening to this episode of the Seen podcast. Liked what you heard? Get early access to these episodes and a ton of other great art content by becoming a member of Seen at seen.art. If you want to connect with us between episodes, follow us on Instagram, @watchseenart. About the Seeing Series The Seeing Series gets to the heart of what makes an artist tick. By always searching for the motivating truth behind an artist’s practice, we give viewers insider access to some of the most exciting artists in the world, all in a down-to-earth, honest way. From established artists like Rashid Johnson to emerging stars like Simonette Quamina, we speak to the good and the great of the artworld, ultimately creating an accurate portrait of how creatives survive, flourish and function today.