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November 19, 2013 in Featured Artists, Mixed Media, Painting

 

BIOGRAPHY:

 

Artist Johan van der Dong was born in Groningen on April 27, 1962, and has busied himself ever since then by creating things you’ve most likely never thought of. His (imaginary) world often touches the real one by awakening people to certain matters such as religion and intolerance. In fact, the chief aim of many of his works is to spread a message of tolerance for one another. Throughout the process of creating, Johan asks many questions of himself and those around him, specifically regarding the reaction of others when rituals, customs, and symbols are used in non-traditional ways.

 

Through experiencing his work, people are challenged to reconsider their thoughts or positions on particular issues of the day. As an example, in 2007 he set up and offered to wash the feet of passers by, just to see their reaction. He used a similar set-up on another occasion, and arranged to wash the feet of a Muslim member of his nation’s parliament. During the exercise, he opened a discussion on the role of religion in modern society.

 

Observers of Johan’s conceptual work are often asked to participate by explaining the purpose of the project in relation to the modern community. For example, he designed a “Hotline of God” which featured a live phone line where over 350,000 people from all over the world undertook a modern spin on prayer by placing a phone call. His list of similar installation is impressive, and can be viewed on his own website by clicking the link below.

 

Enjoy a sample of Johan’s works in the gallery below. If his mixed-media style resonates with you, you can contact John van der Dong by completing the contact form located below the image gallery.