Paul Johns
Aotearoa New Zealand, b.1951
Untitled
- 1998
- Enamel on canvas
- Purchased 2004
- Reproduced with permission
- 420 x 1705 x 20mm
- 2004/31
Tags: Bible stories, Christianity, deaths, eroticism, men (male humans), nudes (representations), people (agents)
In this work, from his 1998 series I Want To Be Your Slave, Paul Johns looks to Western art’s representation of Christ and the Christian martyrs and saints. Untitled is similar to many Italian Renaissance images of the dead Christ. Paul’s work also references pop artist Andy Warhol, whose photographs reflect an obsession with the ideal representation of the male figure in art history – Paul, too, is interested in cultural stereotypes.
This prone figure has a sense of vulnerability, is tender and erotic. Encountering this image, which brings together historical and contemporary readings of the body, we are challenged to assess our own thoughts on sexuality, death, devotion and desire.
(Perilous: Unheard Stories from the Collection, 6 August 2022- )
Exhibition History
Untitled is a photographic, screen-printed image on canvas which is similar to Italian Renaissance images of the dead Christ. Paul Johns’ work, though, also suggests a modern fascination with sexuality and religion, and with the idea of the glance that seduces.
This work is from a series called ‘I Want To Be Your Slave’ in which Johns looked at Western art’s representation of Christ and the Christian martyrs and saints.
Johns was born in Christchurch and studied at the University of Canterbury School of Fine Arts. He has exhibited regularly in group and solo exhibitions throughout New Zealand and is the recipient of several awards and grants. He lives and works in Christchurch.
There is an information sheet available about this work.
Related
Notes
Untitled by Paul Johns
This article first appeared in The Press on 30 November 2005
Christchurch artist Paul Johns consistently surprises with his varied and experimental practice that has spanned nearly three decades. Currently Artist in Residence for 2005 at Tylee Cottage in Wanganui his work makes reference to the environs of Jerusalem (Hiruharama), a riverside settlement of the Wanganui River.