Kikuo Johnson

I feel like I’ve known Kikou Johnson’s work for a lifetime...

It’s almost like it has been floating forever in the ether. Realistically, it probably entered my brain — and many of yours as well — from the many New Yorker covers he’s done over the past handful of years. They always stand out. Maybe because they somehow balance being brilliantly conceptual and graphic while also holding loads of detail, or perhaps because they’re just fun to behold.

Either way, something about his work really captured me personally; the daydreamy moments of a summer day in the park, or the hidden details found in the cracks of New York — you know, the ones that create this inside joke or native language that only those that have really lived in the city speak. Snapshots of shared feelings.

New Yorker covers aside, preparing any artist’s portfolio involves diving into their archive of work; this one has been especially enjoyable. There’s so much lush imagery throughout and it’s become very clear that Kikuo is a talented storyteller as well. On that note, I highly recommend his award-winning graphic novels - The Night Fisher and No One Else, which you can find at any bookseller.

I can't wait for you all to have a look at his incredible work. We’re super excited to have him as part of the Atrbute family: https://www.atrbute.com/artists/R-Kikuo-Johnson

Much love,

Aaron