Jasper Johns – Artwork & Bio of the American Painter

Jasper Johns is an American sculptor born on 15 May 1930 in Augusta, Georgia. Johns started drawing at a young age and nursed the ambition of becoming a professional artist. After studying at the University of South Carolina for three semesters, Johns moved to the Parsons School of Design. However, he only spent one semester before getting drafted into the army.

John’s personal and professional relationships with Robert Rauschenberg helped the development of his art. Around the time, Johns also settled on his choice of subject matter, combining Pop Art and Dadaism styles. He earned international recognition through several exhibitions in the 1950s. Johns currently lives and works in Sharon, Connecticut.

What is Jasper Johns Known For?

Jasper Johns is known for painting and creating collages from newspaper shreds and scraps. In the early-1950s, Johns refused to divert from the motifs of everyday objects and primarily painted flags and targets as his main subjects. He employed a colorful palette of bright colors in most of his artworks.

Who was Jasper Johns Influenced By?

Robert Rauschenberg influenced Jasper Johns’ artworks. After being discharged honorably from the army, Rauschenberg introduced Johns to the art world. After building a romantic and artistic relationship, both artists lived together and shared studios, influencing each other’s works and art styles.

What Art Movement is Jasper Johns Associated With?

Jasper Johns is associated with the Neo-Dadaism and Pop Art movements. Johns created his famous paintings of American flags using newspaper and fabric pieces covered with wax and paint on canvas. In this manner, he combined the techniques of Dadaism and Pop Art.