All Of It: Local Art Alert – Rashid Johnson at the Guggenheim

Released on July 3, 2025, "All Of It" hosted by Alison Stewart on WNYC delves into the vibrant world of local art, spotlighting multifaceted artists who shape New York City's rich cultural landscape. In this episode, Alison engages in an in-depth conversation with multimedia conceptual artist Rashid Johnson and Naomi Beckwith, the Guggenheim's Deputy Director and Chief Curator, discussing Johnson's seminal exhibition, "Rasheed A Poem for Deep Thinkers."

1. Celebrating a Century of Art

Alison Stewart opens the episode by celebrating the culmination of WNYC's 100 pieces of art series. She acknowledges contributions from esteemed experts such as Jerry Saltz, Glenn Ligon, and Thelma Golden, among others. Listeners are directed to WNYC’s website and Instagram for a comprehensive list of the top 100 art suggestions, encouraging them to explore these works in iconic venues like the Met and the Bronx Museum ([00:30] - [01:38]).

2. Introduction to Rashid Johnson’s Guggenheim Exhibition

Rashid Johnson introduces his exhibition, "Rasheed A Poem for Deep Thinkers," which occupies the Guggenheim’s entire rotunda from its debut until January. The show features a diverse array of Johnson’s work, spanning from his early "Seeing in the Dark" photography series to his recent "Soul Painting" and newly created pieces. The exhibition showcases not only photographs and paintings but also mosaics, sculptures, and films, reflecting Johnson’s multidisciplinary approach ([01:38] - [02:58]).

3. Navigating the Mid-Career Survey

Naomi Beckwith discusses the complexities of curating a mid-career survey for Johnson. She highlights the challenges artists face when reflecting on their less evolved past works and ensuring that both early and recent pieces are presented cohesively. Beckwith emphasizes the importance of treating the exhibition as a midpoint rather than an endpoint, fostering an environment that respects Johnson’s artistic journey and evolution ([02:58] - [05:15]).

4. The Rotunda as a Canvas

Discussion shifts to the architectural significance of the Guggenheim’s Rotunda. Beckwith explains how Rashid Johnson engages with Frank Lloyd Wright’s complex design, choosing to "dance with the architecture" rather than conform to its challenges. She appreciates Wright’s vision of integrating life and structure, noting the presence of a hanging garden that mirrors the museum's intended vivacity. This symbiotic relationship between art and space is crucial for the exhibition’s success ([05:15] - [09:03]).

5. Multi-Layered References in Johnson’s Work

Alison Stewart highlights the outdoor sculpture "Black Steel in the Hour of Chaos," a piece that sets the thematic tone for the exhibition. Johnson elaborates on the sculpture’s layered references—from Public Enemy and hip hop culture to Jasper Johns’ artistic symbolism. He underscores the intricate web of cultural and artistic allusions that define his work, encouraging viewers to engage deeply with each piece ([09:03] - [12:16]).

Rashid Johnson [12:13]: "How is music a part of your practice? How is it a part of your life?"

6. The Role of Music in Artistic Expression

Music plays a pivotal role in Johnson’s creative process. Beckwith shares her personal connection to Public Enemy and how music has influenced her intellectual and artistic development. She draws parallels between the improvisational nature of jazz and hip hop and the critical engagement found in her and Johnson’s work, illustrating how musical rhythms and themes inspire their artistic narratives ([12:16] - [14:11]).

7. Literary Influences and the Visual Arts

The conversation transitions to the interplay between the written word and visual arts in Johnson’s work. Beckwith details her upbringing in an academically rich environment, surrounded by profound literary texts. This early exposure shaped her appreciation for textual references, which she seamlessly integrates into Johnson’s sculptures. The inclusion of books by authors like Frantz Fanon and Gwendolyn Brooks adds depth and context to his visual narratives ([17:31] - [19:51]).

Naomi Beckwith [19:42]: "If you're reading something now and you want something really contemporary, Danzy Senna’s Colored Television is incredible."

8. Highlighted Works and Viewer Engagement

Beckwith provides an overview of key pieces within the exhibition, such as "Me at the Grave of Jack Johnson," which juxtaposes legacy and mortality with a touch of performance art. She emphasizes the importance of experiencing multiple works to grasp the full scope of Johnson’s vision, advocating for viewers to visit the exhibition twice to fully appreciate its richness and complexity ([16:06] - [21:53]).

9. Personal Reflections and Artistic Legacy

In discussing her film "Sanguine," Beckwith reflects on the themes of care and intergenerational relationships, symbolizing her dual role as both a parent and a child. This piece exemplifies the exhibition’s exploration of personal growth, legacy, and the cyclical nature of life, aligning with the broader themes of transcendence and spiritual inquiry present throughout Johnson’s work ([21:53] - [23:11]).

10. Concluding Insights

Alison Stewart wraps up the conversation by reiterating the significance of Johnson’s exhibition, "Rasheed A Poem for Deep Thinkers," inviting listeners to experience the multifaceted art on display before moving on to preview her next conversation with the curator of the Frick Collection. The episode underscores the dynamic interplay between artist intention, curatorial vision, and viewer engagement in shaping the cultural tapestry of New York City ([23:11] onward).

Key Takeaways:

• Rashid Johnson’s Exhibition: A comprehensive mid-career survey that blends photography, painting, sculpture, and film, set within the architecturally complex Guggenheim Rotunda.

• Curatorial Perspective: Naomi Beckwith highlights the delicate balance of honoring an artist’s past while embracing their evolving vision, ensuring the exhibition serves as a midpoint rather than a culmination.

• Cultural and Musical Influences: Johnson’s work is deeply intertwined with music and literary references, creating layered narratives that invite critical engagement and deep contemplation.

• Viewer Engagement: The exhibition encourages multiple visits to fully appreciate the depth and breadth of Johnson’s artistic journey, fostering a deeper connection between the art and its audience.

• Legacy and Personal Growth: Themes of legacy, intergenerational relationships, and personal evolution are central to both Johnson’s and Beckwith’s contributions to the exhibition.

For those keen to explore the intersection of visual arts, literature, and music within New York City's cultural scene, this episode of "All Of It" offers a profound exploration of Rashid Johnson’s impactful work and the thoughtful curation that brings it to life.