John W. Carlson: Set the Twilight Reeling

MassMusings

Set the Twilight Reeling is poised to be an emotional experience for visitors. Carlson (1954–2020) communicated using a language of line, colors, space, form, contrast, and gesture to express narrative, and above all, feelings. The artwork draws in visitors and reminds us to recognize the experiences of others and find ways to connect.
Carlson wrote of his own work, “It is important to me, to paint my conviction about the subject, the spirit and less of the details. I choose the most barren, perhaps most brutal way to say what I want strongly and with the fewest possible things necessary.” The artist was dedicated to creating and to the creative process, working constantly in multiple media.
Alexandra Nicholis Coon, MassMu’s executive director, noted “John channeled the weight of his emotions into a creative process.” She explained he had so many stories to tell and were it not for his life being cut short, would undoubtedly have continued to impact the Northeast Ohio art scene, and the country, with his powerful paintings and expressive artistic voice. “Massillon Museum is honored to represent a portion of John W. Carlson’s prolific career in the form of this exhibition and full-color catalog.”
This exhibition and the accompanying catalog introduce the complexity of Carlson’s artistic life. The exhibition’s aim is to create an atmosphere of connection, a goal aligned with that of the Massillon Museum’s mission. Set the Twilight Reeling includes videos, sketchbooks, and items from Carlson’s studio to communicate his intention, thought process, and working environment. The studio objects function as the record of a process.
Carlson makes it clear through the videos in the gallery that he is speaking directly to his audience, acknowledging them in a direct, informal manner that creates a connection through the screen. Although not present in person to experience audience responses and people responding to one another at this exhibition, the spirit in which the artist created, and lived, will undoubtedly be alive in the gallery space.