
Johan Söderström
Born: 1969
Hometown: Stockholm
Based in: Oslo
Born: 1969
Hometown: Stockholm
Based in: Oslo
I am interested in process-based painting and the profound human solitude. While exploring one thing, I sometimes try to formulate something about the other.
My work is made from construction filler in oak frames. I have developed a unique technique, where I insert 6 mm thick layers of grey and white filler into the frame like intarsia, instead of on top of each other as in conventional painting. The result gives a graphic expression that at the same time has tactile materiality. I use some simple but clearly defined methods to apply the filler in the frame. These limit the expression of cognitively controlled processes, thus opening an opportunity to reveal something unknown.
They often take the form of series or installations that extend into the room.
I base my work on the notion of a primary alienation in the human subject. By using painting, I want to formulate something around this lack, or the desire, integrated into our perception of reality. I want to explore whether the problem can illuminate other forms of social and cultural alienation—for example, privileges, class, racism and xenophobia. In short, different types of distances between people.
I have previously shown works in Scandinavia at Konsthallen Trollhättan, Konsthallen Lokstallet, Konstepidemin, Kristiansands Konsthall, Akershus Kunstsenter, Trondheim Senter for Samtidskunst och Tenthaus Oslo. I am educated in Norway at Kunstakademiet in Trondheim and live and work in Oslo.
What inspires you?
As I’m as a person is interested in political issues and philosophical/psychological theories, I also find my biggest inspiration, or motivation, in this. In art, I think Informalism and artist like Antoni Tapies are very important to me right now. Also, movements like Arte Povera. But also artist like Bruce Naumann, Sophie Calle and Sol Le Witt.
Describe your creative process.
I get an intuitive ideas and make small sketches. At some point, I decide to produce one of these into real work. It often changes from the original plan because of the qualities of the material I use. I welcome this, as I want matter to add something extra to it. I start with one colour and apply the next one after drying. When it dries it cracks, and I fill the cracks with different coloured filler to enhance them. Finally, I sand it off. It is not until ten that I see how the piece looks.
What are 3 words that best describe your work?
Minimal, tactile and graphic
Who are some artists that have influenced your work?
Antoni Tapies, Alberto Burri, Sigmar Polke, Anselm Kiefer, Bruce Naumann, Sophie Calle.
What is the most important tool when creating your work?
I have thre power tools, a miter saw, a grinder and a vacuum cleaner. I also often use a scrape.
What is the best piece of advice you have been given?
“Try Again. Fail Again. Fail Better"
Where do you go for inspiration?
The morning paper. Books. My mind.
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Education
Kunstakademiet i Trondheim
Norway, 1999
Awards
BKH One year working grant
2020
BKH One year working grant
2017
Exhibition support Norwegian Artcouncil
2011
Norwegian Government Miscellaneous grant
2009
BKH One year working grant
2008
Vederlagsfondet Art grant
2006
Three year working grant, Norwegian Government
2001
Vederlagsfondet Art grant
2000
Equipment support, Norwegian Government
1999
Exhibitions
Bilderberg
Norway, 2022
Pace&Pound
Norway, 2022
Real Thing
Sweden, 2022
As Far as my Eyes can Sea
Norway, 2021
Shadow Government
Sweden, 2020
Tablet
Norway, 2020
Låt det obetydliga tala
Sweden, 2019