The Tribune

By ALESHA CADET

Tribune Features Reporter

acadet@tribunemedia.net

THE FIRST solo exhibit by artist Tyler Johnston received strong support from the art community when it opened last week at Popopstudios.

Over sixty art enthusiasts gathered at the gallery to view Mr Johnston’s “Tropical Alchemy” series.

“People were pleased to see a very fresh new show (from Tyler). Several pieces were sold, which is always good for a first time show from a new artist,” said a guest in attendance. The exhibition will be up at the gallery until the end of next week.

Three bodies of work are contained in the show depicting power objects, transmutation icons and maps of inheritance, said Mr Johnston. Although each of these bodies of work have a distinct character that creates a unique identity or sensibility, all of them deal with transformation and have had tropical births.

“Their intrinsic tropical nature lies in the materials, the environment in which they were created, as well as the textures, colours and intentions they evoke,” said Mr Johnston.

Speaking about the name of the show, Mr Johnston said alchemy is the process of changing one substance into another. So the exhibition was about change, transformation and rebirth in a tropical sense.

“In ancient days people believed that there was a secret formula to change lead into gold. Its a metaphor for the human spirits evolution from a lower ignorant nature into a higher spiritual nature,” said Mr Johnston.

Having the opportunity to expand his perspective, skill sets and networks whilst living abroad has been extraordinarily valuable for Mr Johnston, but he said now is the time to return and put those things to work in the Bahamas.

“A cultural renaissance is happening; Bahamian people understand that art and culture play a vital role in creating a healthy, vibrant, economically sustainable and prosperous society. Its also nice to get back and enjoy the simple things, the sun, water and beautiful women,” said Mr Johnston.

Speaking about the special performance by the Bahama Woodstarr at the exhibit,  Mr Johnston said the Bahama Woodstarr is a character that represents alchemical concepts, diverse elements unifying to create a new mutation or form.

“He is the love child of a pirate and a mermaid, half scoundrel and half celestial. It is meant to entertain as a theatrical piece, but you just may feel an extra touch of good luck if you come to witness the blessing, who knows,” said Mr Johnston.

Look out for more works by Mr Johnston on May 17 at the Liquid Courage Gallery. He said the show will consist of reappointed objects, and it is going to be “very fun and very pink.”