Johnny Swing to describe his eclectic art at Herron lecture Feb. 22
Internationally known artist Johnny Swing lives life and creates art according to the four P's.
"Christmas Buffalo," 2010, Johnny Swing
"Persistence. Preparation. Perspiration. Patience. Possess at least three of these," he says. "Mix in talent, love in your heart, a few lucky breaks and a supportive family, and you might make it."
Swing will present a free lecture at Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis' Herron School of Art and Design at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 22, in the Basile Auditorium in Eskenazi Hall. He will share his personal experiences evolving from starving artist to someone who makes a living at it now.
Swing knows the highs of having his work embraced and the lows of seeing his art slammed by critics.
"If you're feeling crushed, you have to learn to rebuild and fight for the validity of your work," he said. "My own ego says to stay true, but truthfully, I am influenced by everything. It is good to understand and embrace this."
Swing has developed a loyal following of fans around the world -- including Indy-based businessman David Eskenazi, whose collection includes a number of Swing's pieces.
"For me, Johnny's work starts with the shape and flow of the piece -- the curves, and a fluidity which seems frozen in space," Eskenazi said. "Then there's the material -- unexpected, as in 'and look what it's made of' -- coins or raw metal, a heavy material suspended in this fluid shape. With the coin furniture, you first get fixated on the coins -- the welds and patterns -- besides, of course, asking yourself how much money this adds up to. Underneath lies a structure and support frame equally as beautiful, easy to overlook."
Swing's free public lecture is being presented with the support of Julie and David Eskenazi.
