Lori Brook Johnson: A Nearly Concealed Heart

This body of work explores labor and its effects on relationships, self-esteem, and one’s ability to grieve with a focus on the confident beauty that would have been expressed if loving care was given in place of exploitation. Born in the coal fields of West Virginia, I reference my personal history as well as documentation from The Farm Security Administration and the National Child Labor Committee to compose new mixed media drawings to reflect on the generational ramifications of exploitative labor. The effort of this work is focused on healing and tending to things neglected or harmed in the past. This exhibit will include pieces composed around child labor, the family, and our relationships with animals and the immediate environment.

When: April 26 – June 1, 2024
Where: Owen Gallery