Rashid Johnson’s “Nudiustertian” exhibition in Hong Kong’s central district was a highly anticipated event for art enthusiasts and professionals alike. The artist, born in Chicago and now based in New York, works in various media, including painting, sculpture, installation, and video. In recent years, he has had several solo exhibitions and participated in 25 group exhibitions across the United States, Europe, China, and Japan. However, “Nudiustertian” holds great significance as it marks his first solo exhibition in the Asian region.
The word “Nudiustertian,” meaning “the very recent past,” was used for the exhibition title. Johnson’s latest creations, completed in 2022, were on display, including the “Bruise Painting,” “Seascape,” “Surrender Painting,” and the “Untitled Broken Men” series. The geometric shapes in the “Bruise Painting” resemble human facial features, reflecting the artist’s nervous gestures. The meticulously arranged abstract work in the painting reflects the emotions Johnson felt during the pandemic. On the other hand, in the “Surrender Painting” series, Johnson used more white and left more space on the canvas, which could signify a healing process and a sense of positivity.
Johnson’s work has often explored the theme of anxiety, and the psychological aspects of his work were discussed at the Art Gallery of New South Wales in Australia on the day of the exhibition opening. In the past year, Hong Kong lifted its pandemic-related guidelines, making Art Basel Hong Kong a highly anticipated event. At the opening of Johnson’s exhibition, a large crowd gathered, possibly due to the excitement of the event.
Johnson’s first solo exhibition in Asia left a lasting impression, showcasing his unique artistic style and his ability to reflect the complexities of the world around us. Through “Nudiustertian,” the visitors journeyed through the recent past and experienced Johnson’s interpretation of the current world.