SCULPTOR

by Jesse Lassen Bellinger

How do you put a price on your own head? Sculptor Andy Johnson
first discovered stone at age 11, and has since carved something
every day. From two-faced rotating heads to spermatozoa in repose
to an ancient-looking representation of a woman’s head the size of
a young teenager’s fist, Johnson creates timeless art that demands
a second look and may even offend. Until recently, he never felt
the desire to sell anything. He just makes the stuff because he
likes it.

“Why would I sell something I made?” he asked. “This is what
makes me tick: the exfoliation of stone. It’s a compulsion.” He
holds up what could be a hippoplatypus, then quickly points to what
started as a horse but now is what it is. After 25 years, when he
makes a mistake, Johnson utilizes the “whatever” motto rather than
get the cold sweats like he just lost his wallet.