
David Otis Johnson’s sculptures intertwine luminous lines and dynamic forms, evoking a harmonious interplay between light and space. With each piece, he aims to provoke contemplation and spark dialogue, inviting viewers to explore the boundaries of reality and the ethereal beauty that lies within the intangible realm of illuminated vibrance. Often drawing inspiration from the sign industry and the language of commerce, his art practice can be seen as a reflection on the power of symbols and their influence on contemporary society. By employing familiar visual cues, color schemes, iconic shapes, and typography, he defines the line between art and advertisement, challenging the viewer to question the pervasive impact of consumer culture on our identities.
Present 14” x 52” x 3” neon, powder-coated steel 2025
Thin Red Line 72” x 2” x 8” 74” x 0.5” x 6.5” neon
Noble 54” x 110” x 3” neon, powered-coated frame 2025
Practice Restraint 30” x 72” x 4” neon, powder-coated steel (Shaded Cherry) 2025
Never Better 38” x 66” x 3” neon, powder-coated steel 2025
Chandelier 43” x 32” x 4” neon, found gate 2025
Untitled (neon and concrete slit) 16” x 12” x 5” neon, concrete 2007
Gated Community 46” x 40” x 12” neon, found gate 2004
A Ton & A Ton 52” x 102” x 52” neon, concrete, concrete bricks, wood pallets 2004
A Ton & A Ton (detail) 52” x 102” x 52” neon, concrete, concrete bricks, wood pallets 2004
Waist and Wingspan 37” x 77” x 14” neon 2008
Waist and Wingspan (detail) 37” x 77” x 14” neon 2008
Caption
Untitled Dimensions Variable (tube 1.25” x 9” x 1.25”) neon 2006
Untitled (detail) Dimensions Variable (tube 1.25” x 9” x 1.25”) neon 2006
Noctambulant 48” x 72” x 4” neon, mirrored stainless steel, steel 2019
Noctambulant 48” x 72” x 4” neon, mirrored stainless steel, steel 2019
Tighter 50” x 50” x 4” neon, mirrored stainless steel, steel 2019
Corridor 25” x 24” x 4” neon, powder-coated aluminum, steel 2019
Corridor 25” x 24” x 4” neon, powder-coated aluminum, steel 2019
Reen 28” x 52” x 5” neon, powder-coated aluminum, steel 2019
Dawn 24” x 52” x 4” neon, powder-coated aluminum, steel 2019
Dawn 24” x 52” x 4” neon, powder-coated aluminum, steel 2019