Exhibiting Warhol

Feb 06, 2013

Lauren Johnson

Lauren Johnson ’14, Excelsior, Minn., is experiencing what it’s like to exhibit the works of a major artist.

Johnson, who is studying art history and museum studies, spent three months working with curators at the Plains Art Museum in Fargo, N.D., on an exhibition of Andy Warhol that includes two of Warhol’s last series: “Cowboys and Indians” and “Myth.”

Warhol was a leading figure in the Pop art movement of the 1960s. The show, which features 36 prints, is a commentary on celebrity that features portraits of real people and fictional characters who are myths and icons from history, television, film and politics.

“I’m unbelievably lucky and honored to get this internship and work on a major show like this,” says Johnson, who aspires to work professionally in museum galleries. “It’s a fun learning experience.”

Johnson was involved in all steps of the exhibition process, including the design of the gallery. She also created a children’s book to accompany the exhibit.

She worked so effectively with the team at the Plains that she was asked to help with other exhibits this year.

“Art is a huge part of my life, and I’ve always loved museums,” she says. “My goal is to bring art and art history to the public to help enrich people’s lives.”

Dr. Susan Lee, director of museum studies at Concordia, credits the Plains with creating a substantive work experience for Johnson’s internship.

“To be asked to create your own outreach project is a significant accomplishment,” says Lee. “I think Lauren has found a niche for herself in museum work.”

Lee will bring a group of students, including Johnson, with her this summer to Korea to study various forms of art-making.

Johnson’s interest? Exploring how exhibits are presented in Korean galleries.

More about the Warhol exhibit at the Plains

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