Brian Hagberg
WARREN, Pa. – When it comes to inspiration, there are certainly worse options to turn to than Michelangelo.
Michelangelo’s work has inspired many, including Warren Area High School senior Logan Johnson, who used the Reinassance artist’s work as the basis for something he hopes will inspire others.
Johnson was one of six students across Warren County whose work was chosen to grace billboards purchased by CORE (Choosing Openness Regarding Experiences) for Mental Health Month. His piece was inspired by another famous work on display.
“My artwork was very much inspired by Michelangelo’s ‘The Creation of Adam’ on the Sistine Chapel’s ceiling,” Johnson said. “I love the powerful image in that work of the two hands reaching out to one another and likened it to reaching out to those grappling with their mental health. Taking the initiative to make sure your loved ones know they are safe, loved, and understood is very important to me.”
CORE wanted to give each student a chance to express what Mental Health Month means for them.
“CORE challenged the high school students to come up with their own messages for Mental Health Month through art which was judged and winners from each school were chosen to have their artwork displayed on the billboards,” CORE founder Kari Swanson said.
Seeing those close to him struggle with their own mental health issues made Johnson want to participate in the project.
“My art teacher, Mrs. Hendricks, recommended I submit work,” Johnson said. “And I have had close friends and family who have faced adversity regarding their mental health.”
The theme of the project spoke to Johnson as well.
“It is important to me that we end the stigmas surrounding mental health because all people are deserving of understanding, love, and compassion, no matter what they are facing,” Johnson said.
While Johnson’s work was one of six chosen to appear on a billboard, all the entries can be viewed around Warren County.
“In addition to the billboards, CORE has secured store windows from McKissock, Total Evolution, the old Phase 2 and Beacon Light to display all of the entries received during the month of May,” Swanson said.
Though he’s had work displayed publicly before at the Warren Public Library, seeing it on a billboard just felt different.
“It felt amazing seeing my artwork on a billboard,” Johnson said. “Especially knowing that people will drive past the billboard every day and hopefully reflect on the image and quote I chose.”
Specifically, Johnson hopes people will think about how important it is to have conversations about mental health.
“When people see my piece I hope they stop and reflect on how they treat others and start open and meaningful conversations of mental health with their loved ones,” Johnson said.
See other billboard stories: Katie Bunk • Paige Rafalski • Karson Lyon
