The Florence County Museum celebrates the 120th anniversary of William H. Johnson’s birth with a new exhibition of his work on March 19, 2021.
The exhibition, titled Kindred Spirit: the Personal Worlds of William H. Johnson, focuses on the artist’s relationships with the people and places in his life.
The twenty-four works on exhibit include paintings from his time in France, Denmark, and New York. Others explore more personal themes, like Johnson’s spiritual and family life, and his hometown of Florence, SC.
Of particular interest, a recently conserved tapestry woven by Johnson’s wife, Holcha Krake, and a portrait bust of Holcha’s sister sculpted by 20th century German expressionist, Christoph Voll, Johnson’s brother-in-law. Both works, along with others in the exhibit were acquired by the museum from Johnson’s family descendants in Denmark.
The exhibit combines resources from the museum’s permanent collections, private collections as well as from the Amistad Research Center in New Orleans.
“This exhibit brings together all of the significant moments in the story of Johnson’s art and life,” says museum curator, Stephen W. Motte.
The Florence County Museum Board is grateful to McLeod Health for their support of this exhibition. Along with the Florence County Museum, McLeod Health is committed to preserving the legacy of William H. Johnson by supporting exhibitions, conservation, and educational programs that enhance our understanding of Johnson and his contribution to 20th century art.
The museum will continue to provide digital content and print materials throughout the duration of the exhibition. A reception and lecture coinciding with the exhibit will be held at the museum 3 PM, Sunday, March 28. The public is invited to attend.
The Florence County Museum is open Tuesday through Saturday, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM and Sunday from 2:00 to 5:00 PM.
