Rashid Johnson, one of the most influential contemporary artists of his generation, is bringing his keen curatorial eye to Miami this December. Known for his multifaceted approach to art, which blends photography, sculpture, and installation, Johnson is poised to curate an exceptional exhibition titled Prelude at the Berkowitz Contemporary Foundation (BCF). This group show, which debuts during the heart of Miami Art Week on December 2, 2025, promises to be a defining moment for both the artist and the art world at large.
While Johnson is currently captivating audiences with his major solo exhibition A Poem For Deep Thinkers at the Guggenheim in New York (on view through January 2026), Prelude offers a glimpse into his curatorial vision and the power of collaboration within the art world. Drawing from the BCF collection, the exhibition will include Johnson’s monumental Surrender Painting, a centerpiece that anchors the show both visually and emotionally. This powerful work, surrounded by pieces from renowned artists like Cy Twombly, Alberto Giacometti, and John McCracken, creates a dynamic conversation about history, materiality, and identity in contemporary art.
Rashid Johnson: From Artist to Curator
Rashid Johnson’s Prelude marks a significant shift in his artistic journey as he steps into the role of curator. Although Johnson is widely celebrated for his own innovative work, this exhibition reflects his growing interest in the creative process of others. In a recent conversation with Miami Design District curator Karen Grimson, Johnson shared his excitement about curating works from BCF’s collection, highlighting the rare opportunity to engage with artworks by his heroes. “It’s less about platforming them,” Johnson explains, “and more about creating a space where my work can interact with these artists in meaningful ways.”
The idea for Prelude came organically from Johnson’s long-standing friendship with Chloe Berkowitz, the founder of BCF. After years of studio visits and discussions about art, the opportunity to exhibit Surrender Painting arose. Johnson wanted to go beyond a traditional solo show and curate an exhibition that reflects his deep admiration for the artists who have influenced him. The exhibition was built not around a specific theme, but rather around the concept of works that have meaning to both Johnson and the collection, allowing for a rich, open-ended dialogue between the pieces.
BCF’s Role in Shaping Contemporary Art Conversations
Founded in 2013, the Berkowitz Contemporary Foundation has established itself as a significant player in the world of contemporary art. The nonprofit organization is dedicated to bringing innovative, multidisciplinary artwork to public spaces, and Prelude continues this mission by presenting a thoughtful curation of art that inspires reflection and discussion. The exhibition’s setting within the Miami Design District further enhances its role in the city’s vibrant cultural scene, particularly during Miami Art Week, a time when art lovers, collectors, and curators from around the world descend on the city.
For Johnson, this exhibition is an opportunity to create a space where art speaks to and interacts with its surroundings. As he prepares to extend the exhibition’s influence to the forthcoming Longleaf Art Park in northwest Florida, he is committed to exploring how art can resonate within a broader environmental and cultural context. Prelude invites visitors to attune to the natural elements that will define the future park, while celebrating the history and vision of the works on display.
A Dynamic Conversation: The Artists Behind “Prelude”
The works featured in Prelude reflect Johnson’s personal connection to each artist and the meaningful dialogue that can emerge when diverse voices come together. The inclusion of artists like Twombly, Giacometti, and McCracken in the show offers a rare opportunity to see these figures, whose work has inspired Johnson, in conversation with his own. “The Berkowitz collection is so profoundly and thoughtfully acquired,” Johnson notes, “there are many brilliant objects by artists that I consider antecedent heroes to my own project.” Through this curated exhibition, Johnson is able to highlight not just his own work, but the broader narrative of artistic evolution and influence.
While Johnson’s curatorial debut in Prelude offers a new perspective on his artistic practice, it also reflects his longstanding engagement with the world of art collecting. Alongside his wife, artist Sheree Hovsepian, Johnson has built an extensive collection that spans both historical and contemporary works. This personal connection to art collecting informs his curatorial work, as he is acutely aware of the power of living with art and the way it shapes one’s own creative journey. In fact, Johnson’s personal collection, which includes works by artists such as David Hammons and Louise Bourgeois, mirrors the ethos of Prelude which is a celebration of the artists and movements that have shaped him.
Why You Should See “Prelude” During Miami Art Week
For anyone attending Miami Art Week 2025, Prelude is an exhibition that should not be missed. Not only does it offer a fresh look at the creative process of Rashid Johnson, but it also presents an opportunity to see how contemporary art can create a meaningful dialogue across time and space. Whether you’re a long-time admirer of Johnson’s work or new to his practice, this exhibition provides a unique chance to experience his curatorial voice in a public setting. Find more details to attend below.
Rashid Johnson x BCF : The Prelude
🗓️ DATES:
December 2nd, 2025 – Early 2026
⏰ HOURS:
Tuesday – Sunday: 10 AM – 6 PM
📍 LOCATION:
151 NE 41st St.
Suite 133, Miami, FL 33137