A Poem for Deep Thinkers

The Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum has unveiled its exhibition program for 2025, featuring Rashid Johnson: A Poem for Deep Thinkers, which will run from April 18th, 2025, to January 18th, 2026. This mid-career survey will showcase nearly 90 works from the renowned American artist, spanning multiple mediums, including painting, sculpture, photography, and film. Johnson, known for intertwining themes of Black identity, art history, and personal experience, explores ideas of anxiety, escape, and social alienation throughout his work.

Among the key pieces in the exhibition are The New Negro Escapist Social and Athletic Club photo series, the abstract Cosmic Slop paintings made with black soap and wax, and his iconic Anxious Men and Broken Men series. These works convey raw emotion and examine the complexities of modern masculinity. Johnson’s large-scale sculptures will be placed both inside and outside the museum, transforming the space into a dynamic artistic environment. A central highlight will be the premiere of Sanguine (2024), a film exploring intergenerational relationships, which will be shown on the Guggenheim’s top ramp. The title of the exhibition, inspired by a poem by Amiri Baraka, reflects Johnson’s ongoing engagement with cultural and intellectual heritage. The exhibition aims to offer a deep reflection on social issues, art history, and personal identity, marking a significant moment in Johnson’s evolving career.