Please join us for the opening reception of Marie Okuma Johnston solo show “Tales of Overstimulation”

Opening reception Friday January 5th 5pm-9pm at Make.Shift Art Space

Artist talk Saturday January 13th 3:00pm-4:00pm

"Tales of Overstimulation"

"Artist Statement

"Tales of Overstimulation" is a reflection on our current collective state of being as told through "wagara"- or traditional Japanese textile patterns. Wagara are different patterns that both originated in Japan or were brought in from overseas to represent aspects of nature, spirituality, and prayers. They are frequently used in Kimono patterns and decor to symbolize the wearer's aspirations and wishes. In "Tales of Overstimulation," Wagara are used in contradiction with modern issues that are causing an increase in overstimulation across the globe. In the creation of the work, the artist reflected on their personal relationship with colors, patterns, and noise. When in a space that is too quiet- the artist has a difficult time focusing due to the need to multitask but when in a space that is too busy- the artist feels overstimulated.

Within the collection, the traditional minimalism of the wagara patterns are met with a maximalist color scheme and then layered once more with modern-day topics. The idea of the exhibit is to explore the balance of modern-day minimalism, the art of storytelling, and the opportunity for solidarity to allow the viewer to feel seen as they navigate a complicated and conflicting world. Each piece is titled with the capitalized name of the pattern and then the true meaning of the piece. This allows the viewer to enjoy the piece as is or if enticed, can look into the history and lore of a specific pattern to create a deeper understanding of the traditional meaning and explore their own interpretation of the topic and pattern.

One piece is different from all of the other pieces- titled “WAGARA- deconstructed (EMDR).” This piece is a minimalist abstract work utilizing shapes and elements of patterns throughout the entirety of the exhibit. This piece reflects the practice of Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy where the eyes move from left to right or top to bottom to help bring out emotions regarding memories. This piece allows for the viewer to rest from the explosion of patterns and topics to focus on their own deconstruction of the show.

Artist Bio

Marie Okuma Johnston (she/they) is a mixed media artist who creates in order to unpack her experiences navigating a world where she’s neither quite American or Japanese. She incorporates Japanese imagery into her artwork, tying in her love for Shinto/Buddhist folklore and customs together with modern society. Her artwork is done in bright storybook or cartoonish formats to create a familiar and comfortable feeling for the viewer while challenging them with uncomfortable subject matters around capitalism, modern day events, and systemic injustices. Within each collection, pieces are connected through their layers of storytelling but can vary on the level of noise or the level of realism to reflect the continuous shifts within our mental states as we navigate a complex and challenging world.

Marie was born in Kitakyushu, Japan and moved to Spokane, Washington at a young age. Three years later, she began spending her summers back in Kitakyushu, Japan where she began her journey of connecting with her Japanese identity. Marie got her B.A. in Cultural Anthropology and minored in Music Performance (Cello) at Western Washington University and got her M.A. in Student Development Administration in Higher Education at Seattle University. She began exploring her artistic interests through her leadership within Seattle's Japanese American community and has since transitioned into her full-time art practice.