As with all of Johnson’s works the Figureheads are an evolution of her ideas. She started with the simple speech bubble as a vehicle to express her thoughts. From these speech bubbles the Figureheads emerged. Like figureheads found on ships between the 16th and 20th Century, Johnson’s Figureheads represent guidance and protection. Traditionally figureheads related to the name or function of their ships, they were to ward off evil spirits or symbolise speed, mobility or ferocity in battle. Johnson’s Figureheads echo these traditional meanings in relation to her own female power, guiding her through her life. Johnson’s Figureheads are her own beacons showing her the way at times when she is lost at sea and looking for direction

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