The words and ideas generated by the great American Poet and former East Lawrence resident Langston Hughes provided the inspiration for this project. Hughes writes, “Rhythm is something we share in common, you and I, with all the plants and animals and people in the world, and with the stars and moon and sun, and all the whole vast wonderful universe beyond this wonderful earth which is our home.” Like Hughes, Stephen Johnson looks for visual rhythms in search of the ideas and associations they may elicit. 9th Street Rhythms is a celebration of East Ninth Street and its adjoining streets and alleyways. With this work, Johnson aims to encourage Lawrence residents to discover joy in the most unexpected details of a neighborhood.

This exhibition is part of the East Ninth Street Project. 100% of the proceeds from sales go to the Lawrence Arts Center Financial Aid Fund to enable residents from East Lawrence in need to take courses at no cost.

Reception October 25, 5-9PM

IMAGE: Stephen Johnson, detail from New York School Playgrounds Shadows, Colored pencil over monoprint, 3×3″, 2019