Art is not simply a means of expression for some artists, but can be made to evoke the emotions of those who experience it.

Chicago native Jesse Johnson, who is currently pursuing his Masters in Visual Arts at Indiana University Northwest, hopes that a lightbulb will go off for those who view his paintings.

“Have you ever had a friend or a relative who kept telling you something over and over again, yet you still act like you don’t hear them?” asked Johnson. “All of a sudden, a stranger comes and tells you the exact same thing they have been trying to tell you for a very long time, and you say, ‘Oh yeah, I get it now!’ that’s what I want my paintings to do.”

Johnson says his artwork is inspired by his anger and the particulars of life. He dislikes the unfair treatment of women, racism, and inadequate pay rates. These issues inspire Johnson’s poetry and paintings. However, this anger also creates the main challenge he faces: slowing down.

“I get so upset, I might do twenty paintings and I really need to slow down.” Even still, creating art soothes him from the stresses of life, he said.

Johnson’s first art exhibition was held in March at Live Arts Studio in Gary. He is currently preparing work for his next exhibit coming in January to White Ripple Gallery in Hammond.

“His work represents a lot of what’s going on in society today. There’s always a deeper meaning than what we tend to see on the surface,” says Datianna Tillman, 24, of Gary. “I like that it speaks volumes about the realities many of us face today. It aspires for a better humanity; change, respect, freedom, from discrimination and injustice.”

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    His motivation for pursuing an education in art is the need for creative outlets for future generations. Johnson created the Facebook group, Black Entertainment and Success Stories, which was made with a similar purpose in mind.

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    “It’s not just for us to post our art and get critiqued, but we learn from each other. So the more we express ourselves, they can learn to express themselves.”

    Johnson has also hosted his own radio show, produced music and created collaborative work with other artists on campus.

    A few of his favorite artists include, Kerry James Marshall, Renee Cox, Kara Walker and Betye Saar.

    Jesse’s advice to other artists: “Accept critique, but don’t die from it. Learn from it. Get experience.”

    View and purchase some of Jesse’s artwork at artatitsbess.com.