Inspiration
They often come from the mundane and unexpected, introspective and inquisitive moments in my life. I try not to discriminate amongst the tools I use, least of all – exploration. Varied – bright, colorful, dark – sometimes tinged with some slight narcissism that I see in our modern society. I find people fascinating and with them their behaviors and emotions. Most of the influence behind my work comes in-between moments; periods of reflection, random synaptic firings, memories of moments long ago, they're all part of the kaleidoscope I work within. Unpredictable everyday life, a documented process of often overwhelming emotion and the desire to communicate, make a connection, to be a part of something greater.
Narrative
Justin John was born on the U.S. Naval Base Subic Bay in the Philippines in 1981. He received his BFA from the Maryland Institute College of Art in 2003. Shortly after graduating he moved to Washington, DC. He spent the next few years freelancing as a graphic designer for such companies as B.E.T., The Peace Corps, McGraw-Hill Publishing, A.H.I.P., and more. Justin also worked in promotions and retail merchandising, eventually designing rugs in FLOR’s Georgetown studio location. In 2014, Justin made the decision to move closer to family members living in Boise, ID. He now lives and creates his art from his studio apartment in Boise’s historic Idanha Hotel.
Education
2003 Maryland Institute, College of Art
BFA – Graphic Design Major, Digital Media Arts Concentration
AWARDS
Graphic Design Department Recognition Award (junior year)
Seymour Mandelbaum Merit Award
Dean's list multiple semesters
Solo Exhibitions
Simulacrum
May 3rd – June 30, 2018
May 3rd – June 30, 2018
July 5 – July 29, 2018
UPCYCLE Studio
BoDo, 380 S 8th Street
Boise, ID 83702
BoDo, 380 S 8th Street
Boise, ID 83702
Group Exhibitions
Conception Art Show
September 20, 2018
Iron Triangel Brewing, DTLA.
4983 N Glenwood Street
Garden City, ID 83714
Iron Triangel Brewing, DTLA.
4983 N Glenwood Street
Garden City, ID 83714
August 29, 2018
Revolution Concert House & Event Center
4983 N Glenwood Street
Garden City, ID 83714
Revolution Concert House & Event Center
4983 N Glenwood Street
Garden City, ID 83714
Exposed: The Polaroid Retrospective II
April 9th – July 2011
Lamont Bishop Gallery
1314 9th Street NW
Washington, DC 20001
Lamont Bishop Gallery
1314 9th Street NW
Washington, DC 20001
Publications + Press