Josh Johnson
February 25–April 25, 2023
Canary Test is pleased to present GLASS, a solo exhibition by multidisciplinary artist and choreographer Josh Johnson. Opening on February 25th, 2023, the exhibition will begin with a one-time artist performance and continue with an installation through April 25th, 2023. In GLASS, Josh Johnson explores movement as a spiritual experience. The opening performance embodies a choreographic journey of the soul, which moves beyond the gallery space and into the surrounding landscape where the artist encounters both obstacles and sanctuary. To Johnson, the soul is a dynamic, evolving entity with ulterior motives of its own. Johnson’s engagement with choreography and professional dance underpins the conceptual framework of his exhibition. Challenging the boundaries between performance and installation work, Johnson’s installation functions as a physical extension of his opening performance. Each object in the installation represents a stage in the metaphysical journey of the soul from its inception as a waterfall to the glass heart that serves as an instrument for navigation. The car, in which the soul finds solace, offers a final sanctuary for contemplation.
"The soul dances away from itself through its own ghost demonstrating failures and recovery through sweat. It’s confusing. Looking up and looking down. The soul’s understanding of moral values only allows it to observe and misapprehend. So it raves. Performing human experiences; a version of love and religion. The soul is only a tool, a heart of glass." — Josh Johnson