How an artist lives and the things that encompass their lives will likely give you a more in-depth peak into their practice than a press release ever could. In her new column, Artists Choice, contributor Maria Vogel asks artists for their recommendations across an array of categories, from the coffee they start their day with to the item they can’t live without in the studio.
For an artist who takes his time to work through each painting, Devin B. Johnson has had no shortage of fast-paced demand. The Los Angeles born, New York based artist captures scenes that exist between time, not an exact moment but the hazy space that fills up around memories. They have a metaphysical quality that grounds them in a space outside of the world we live in. In the studio world that Johnson inhabits to build these spaces, he keeps his favourite items close by and maintains an ambience of high quality sound and burning fragrance. Here, Devin B. Johsnon takes us through his recommendations for the studio.
Studio shoes: I like to wear Calzuro rubber clogs as I work. They’re super comfortable.
Studio snack? Salmon or Tuna onigiri.
Go-to paint brand? I paint with a mix of paint brands but I like Williamsburg’s quality of pigment.
Clothing item you often wear in the studio? I have had the same pair of Carhartt coveralls for the past 7 years. A lot of memories and a lot of experiments through paintings.
Brand of speakers or audio listening device? A Model 12 mixer paired with two KRK speakers.
Candle or another scent you like to burn? I’m either burning Nag Champa or something from Le Labo.
Studio furniture? I have a nice seating area in my studio. A futon couch for long studio nights, a rug, and two Denman leather side chairs.
Words by Maria Vogel
