The Chosen: Glass artist Ben

     (AAPNW-IN) – Selected from a field of seven glass artists from around the state, the Indiana Arts Commission has inked Ben Johnson of Cicero. “As the creator of the 2011 Governor’s Arts Award, I am honored to help my state celebrate the individuals and organizations from across Indiana,” said Johnson. “Each recipient of this award has contributed to the arts in our communities to make Indiana a great place to call home.”

     Johnson has taught his genre at the Indianapolis Art Center and Diablo Glass, including assisting at Penland, Haystack and Ox-Bow School of Crafts. His higher education is from Kent State University/B.F.A. as well as continued professional trainings at the Pilchuck Glass School, Scuola del Vetro Abate Zanetti (Italy) and the Corning Museum of Glass. Today, he attends Ball State University in Muncie, while as a faculty instructor at the Indianapolis Art Center.

     “The tradition of the Governor’s Arts Awards includes the commissioning of a new work by an Indiana artist,” said Lewis Ricci, IAC executive director. “Ben’s work is most impressive and we are confident the 2011 recipients will be proud to display his creation.”

     Artist Johnson has exhibited in several museums throughout the country. In addition, he received a Windgate Fellowship Grant Award; was a finalist for the Raphael Founders Prize; Niche Award; LEAP Award and WNC’s magazine competition.  

     “My work is inspired by occurrences in everyday life combined with an interest in texture and color theory.  I use both of these factors to create patterns in my decorative glass that not only reveal layers within the glass, but create a surface texture that is unique to my work.  I also make one of a kind sculpture in glass which comes from my interest with the natural occurrences that control our environment, and the way living organisms affect one another.  The unique works have been shown in a number of exhibitions at such places as the Cleveland Museum of Art, and the Society for Contemporary Craft,” writes Johnson.

     On the campus of Indiana University South Bend this fall, Governor Mitch Daniels will honor the chosen, and for more reading see: www.in.gov/arts/2332.htm. You can also contact Rex Van Zant at IAC by phone 317.232.1273 or email rvanzant@iac.in.gov.