Unapologetically authentic and wildly original, Lucy SM Johnston is an artist, writer and photographer based in East London whose work defies neat definition. Life - with its chaotic domestic rhythms, annoying side-jobs, and ever-present ADHD - doesn’t always make space for creativity. The result? Art that is exquisitely rare, fiercely personal and impossible to predict.
Lucy prays to the burning cathedral of capitalism and uses its ash as her medium - turning the detritus of modern life into work that is vivid, irreverent and utterly unforgettable. Her creative output might refuse to match your sofa, but it will demand a response, an understanding, a second look (and you’ll be glad you gave it).
Her pieces are born from contradictions: humour and honesty, discomfort and delight, chaos and clarity. Each image, line and word is a testament to making meaning in a world that insists on gloss over grit - and doing it with a laugh.
Lucy doesn’t just create art, she lives it, in all its beautiful, messy glory.
“I want my work to feel joyful - bright, poppy, full of joie de vivre. The mouths represent desire, but without a face or body they become something more ambiguous, even devouring. These pieces aren’t meant to blend in or match furniture; they’re made to hold their own, to live alongside other bold, eclectic works and bring real presence to a space.”
— Explore the work
Shortlisted for the Secret Art Prize
Featured across national press including The Times, The Telegraph, Campaign Magazine and Livingetc.
Solo shows at Vibe Gallery, The Player (Soho) and Floradora (Notting Hill)
Exhibited at Saatchi Art (featured artist), Espacio Gallery, Truman Brewery and Inside Space Gallery at Selfridges, alongside appearances in group shows including Nasty Women UK, The Audacity and A World Without End.
