Finchley Artist Craig Johnson's Surreal Photography Featured in London Underground
Work by the Barnet-based photographer, known for his therapeutic and fantastical imagery, was displayed at Oxford Circus Station.
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Finchley-based artist Craig Johnson uses photography to express surreal scenes that germinate in his imagination. His work, often exploring themes of fantasy and darkness, has been recognised through its publication for the London Underground's Art Below anniversary, with his piece 'Greenhouse Gas' displayed at Oxford Circus Station.
Artistic Development and Influences
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Johnson's artistic journey began with an early fascination for "really bad 80s horror films" and a childhood spent staging elaborate scenarios. This interest in the unusual and the darker aspects of visual expression led him to pursue formal education. He studied media at Barnet College before completing a BA (Hons) in photography and a master's in moving image and interactive media at Middlesex University. His academic path concluded with studies in fine art at London College of Communication.
He describes his photography as a means of creating a secure fantasy world, stating, "By creating a fantasy world, I feel like I’m in a safe place. I know its limitations, I can’t be let down." This approach was evident in his early experiments in North Finchley, where he transformed his uncle's garden into a scene for a staged alien invasion, using ambient light and specific camera settings without digital manipulation.
Therapeutic and Community Engagement
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Beyond his personal artistic expression, Johnson has also integrated his creative interests with his professional life, finding art to be a therapeutic tool. He has worked as a mental health specialist support worker, including with elderly individuals with dementia, where art therapy proved successful. He also worked as a support worker for Macmillan, assisting bladder cancer patients. Johnson believes in connecting people with community art groups, highlighting the importance of this integration.
His engagement with the Barnet community includes participating in a Barnet Council photo competition themed around recycling, where his submission, featuring a recycling bin and bottle silhouettes, was displayed on local bus stops. Johnson considers his artistic perspective shaped by his neurodivergence and experiences, enabling him to "see things outside the box" and maintain intense focus.
Current Projects
Currently, Johnson is collaborating with local artist Dayvid Grant, who specialises in ink and surrealist drawings. Johnson expressed excitement about this partnership, noting its potential for creating unique items, particularly for the Christmas season.
Questions this report answers
+What kind of art does Craig Johnson create?
Craig Johnson creates surreal photographic scenes. His work often explores fantasy themes and uses light and shadow to evoke intriguing and sometimes dark atmospheres. He views his art as a form of therapy and a way to express himself.
+Where has Craig Johnson's work been displayed?
Craig Johnson's work 'Greenhouse Gas' was published for the London Underground's Art Below anniversary and displayed at Oxford Circus Station. He has also had his photographs featured on bus stops in Barnet as part of a council competition.
+What is Craig Johnson's background in art and therapy?
Johnson studied photography at Middlesex University and fine art at London College of Communication. He has also worked in mental health support, including with elderly people with dementia, using art therapy, and as a support worker for Macmillan.
+What is Craig Johnson working on currently?
Craig Johnson is currently collaborating with local artist Dayvid Grant on a new project. He stated that this collaboration is very exciting and could lead to items suitable for Christmas gifts.
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