Meet Johnny Young | BLACKMUSEUMIST

We had the good fortune of connecting with Johnny Young and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Johnny, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
I wouldn’t say that I necessarily choose an artistic career path or nor did I pursue creativity, the fact is that I only surrendered to what has been most natural for me. Whats natural for me is creating. If not not creating, Im thinking about creating so this way of life has held me hostage and I am happy that I had the audacity to surrender to it. It does take a certain level of audacity and bravery.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My art practice is extremely wide, my work spans from photography, graphic design, collage., assemblege, Calligraphy, experience design and sound activation. Im most proud of my ability to show up in my practice as my most authentic self. This is an ongoing ever-changing journey because I am ongoing and ever-changing. Most of the challenges in my practice come when I am entertaining the thought of making art for others instead of fulfilling the natural desire that I have and trusting my open vision. I avoid this type of distraction at all cost. I’ve embodied my practice into my life, I am BLACKMUSEUMIST and my work is BLACKMUSEUMIST. It’s the experience of my art without the limitations of walls or barriers. I am the art and the artist.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I kinda want to gatekeep my spots but I will name a few. LA is such a ever-growing city, I’m a native so I have spots that I’ve been going to since I was a youth. If friends are in town, were going to a few Museums, The BROAD, MOCA, LACMA and were taking the train because Ill be showing them all the nuances at the different train stations. Echo Park Lake for a quick rest and reflection. Coffee at Dayglow because why not?

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
The persons that I think deserve the loudest Shoutout are some of my educators from my early childhood. Shoutout too Mrs. Campbell, Mrs. Cotton & Mrs Neigbors. My 3rd and 4th grade instructors and also the School Principal. They really did believe in me and really fostered my natural creative spirit. I am forever grateful for them and Shoutout to Compton Unified School District. It was a beautiful experience in my journey to receive encouragement and affirmation from these strong Black women.

Instagram: @blackmuseumist

Other: Instagram; @vinylhouse.us