Saturday, February 6, 2010

Daniel Johnston

(Young Daniel, holding one of his "Yip Jump Music" tapes)

Daniel Johnston is a very familier and well nown name in the indie community. Recently, after years of existing, a full length documentary was made . Jeff Feuerzeig's "The Devil and Daniel Johnston" was showcased at the 2005 Sundance Film Festival. His earliest exposure to the "pop" culture was in 85', when Daniel's friends had urges them to show up at MTV's filming going on for "The Cutting Edge".

Daniel also has a very good reputation for his artwork. As a fan of comics as he was growing up, he personally designed and drew every tape cover he released.

 His work is described at "Nightmare-ish Comic strips". His work had also been showcased in inernational art gallerys, from NY to London. His "Hi, How are you?" character is most probably the most iconic of his work. His mural in Austin, Tx has been in display for over 10 years, and after few owner changes to the building, it has been preserved.




Unfortunatly, everything has not been all good for him. After years of depression, Dan was diagnosed with Bi-Polar Disorder. It is said, this was due to a "bad acid LSD trip". Others say, it was due to a break up, with an girl, which caused a nervous breakdown. Many people have there opinion on this subjct, but I will let you guys watch this short documenary following Daniel Johnston, kinda like a "Day in the Life..."


(Article Written By: Jesus Flores)

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