Art has the ability to make us think as well as evoke our idle emotions. For many people living in cities today, the reality is skyscrapers of glass and steel, peak hour traffic, computer networks and cellular phones, which can leave us feeling disconnected from nature; devoid of the child-like wonder we once held of the world. It Ben's aim in his first solo exhibition to remind viewers that within art and nature there is hope.
"I have learned through the events in my world and in my life, that art allows me to bring out my poetic side and express my feelings and emotions. My art works are quite explorative in clarifying in paint the wonders and joys of the world as well as contemporary life. I love to use patterns, textures and saturated colour in my work."
Simply by taking the time to open a window and look out at the sky as the sun sets; to enjoy a light breeze on a balcony; to find fresh flowers at the markets or listening to a good dinner table conversation can contain the unexpected memories and uncover forgotten dusty moments of joy.
BIOGRAPHY
Ben Johansen is an emerging visual artist, who grew up in the Maryborough and Hervey Bay region. In 2002, he moved to Brisbane to study a degree in architecture at the University of Queensland and graduated in 2007. His debut exhibition, ‘Saturation’ is an elaboration on the experiences and ideas from his childhood through to working as an adult in architecture and finally following his dreams to be an artist.
"As a child I was surrounded by nature, dirt, gardens, animals and free time. I loved wandering through the bush and I was always in awe of the colours that surrounded me."