Toronto artist Ben Johnston uses thought-provoking phrases in latest exhibition, Wordplay

A Toronto-based artist known for his signature street murals is unveiling his latest art exhibition, which resembles a clever word search that will keep viewers on their toes.

Ben Johnstons Pun opens Thursday night at Taglialatella Galleries Toronto and runs through April 10th.

Tonight’s opening public reception will be at the venue (99 Yorkville Ave.) from 6-8 p.m

Johnston is an award-winning artist and designer internationally known for his signature style of three-dimensional word art. Pun marks Johnston’s third solo show with the gallery.

His new exhibition expands on the unique style of his street art practice and underscores the power of typography.

“Basically, it was just about having fun with words and experimenting and seeing how far I can go with abstraction while still maintaining some legibility,” Johnston told Now Toronto.

“And also using ambiguous language at the same time, which I find interesting because when people come in trying to figure out what it’s saying, they’re also finding out what it means to them,” he added.

His exhibition includes six innovative sculptures with thought-provoking phrases and 10 canvas paintings with single words.

The various artworks are vibrant, colorful and visually pleasing to the eye. Each piece also requires viewers to take some time to observe to truly decipher what word is hidden within the art, providing guests with an interactive experience.

Johnston said the idea for Pun simply “jumped into his head” as he spent countless hours in his studio creating his masterpieces.

He said the exhibition lasted about two and a half months, about three to four days for each piece.

Pun is Johnston’s first time exploring the world of sculpture, as many of his earlier works were created in the street or on murals.

“It was interesting because I worked with some people in China. So it’s just a bit of a language barrier and whatnot. But I mean I’m really happy with how they turned out. And I’ve been teaching myself how to design and produce all the 3D files for the last year or two, it’s been a beautiful process,” he said.

Next, Johnston says he “doesn’t want to close boxes.” He plans to build more sculptures and return to his roots by painting murals across the city.

“I’m open to people coming into contact with nice walls or basketball courts or whatever. But yes, something is definitely happening in Stanley Park. A new court is coming there soon, and yes, I’m open to walls and possibilities, and I mean anything.”

Taglialatella Galleries is open Tuesday to Saturday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and by appointment.