ABOUT UNIVERSITY

About

Prof. Benjamin Johnson has been a distinguished member of the Mid Island University faculty for several decades, serving as the Head of the Applied Arts Department. With a profound dedication to the intersection of creativity and practical application, Prof. Johnson has shaped the department into a leading institution for aspiring artists and designers. His academic journey began with a B.A. in Art History from the University of California, Berkeley, followed by an M.F.A. in Painting from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, and a Ph.D. in Fine Arts from the University of California, Los Angeles.

In addition to his role as department head, Prof. Johnson is an esteemed curator and art critic, with a focus on contemporary art and public art projects. He has exhibited his own work internationally and contributed to numerous exhibitions as a curator. His scholarship includes extensive research on the role of art in urban environments and the impact of public art on community engagement.

Research Focus

Prof. Johnson’s research explores the dynamic relationship between art and public spaces. His current projects investigate how contemporary art can foster community development and cultural dialogue in urban settings. He is particularly interested in how public art installations can serve as catalysts for social change and community building. Prof. Johnson’s work often involves collaboration with artists, architects, and urban planners to create innovative art projects that engage diverse audiences.

His recent research includes a study on the effects of large-scale public art installations on local communities, which combines qualitative interviews, public surveys, and spatial analysis. He is also exploring the potential of art therapy techniques in urban settings to address issues such as social isolation and community disconnection.

Awards

Prof. Johnson’s contributions to the field of applied arts have been recognized through numerous awards and honors. These include the National Endowment for the Arts Fellowship, the Pollock-Krasner Foundation Grant, and the Joan Mitchell Foundation Award. In 2018, he was honored with the Mid Island University Distinguished Faculty Award for his exceptional leadership and innovative contributions to the arts. He has also received grants from various arts foundations and municipal art commissions for his public art projects and research initiatives.