Contagious Magick of the Super Abundance is a richly illustrated monograph celebrating the art and life of Ian Johnstone (1967–2015), longtime collaborator of John Balance and Peter Christopherson of Coil. Compiled by his close companion Mikel, this hardcover volume showcases Johnstone's rarely seen works: from darkly poetic ink drawings and anatomical abstractions to haunting photographs, sculptures, and tattoo designs. The book also includes his cover art for Coil, the 23 Stab Wounds of Julius Caesar series, and essays by Julie Travis, Serena Korda, and Mikel. With a deeply personal tone, it offers glimpses into Johnstone’s life, his performances, and his transformative vision of ritual, body, and the grotesque.
Ian Johnstone (1967–2015) was a British artist whose work spanned drawing, sculpture, performance, and ritualistic installations. Deeply influenced by mysticism, embodiment, and surrealism, he is best known for his collaboration with the experimental music group Coil, notably contributing the cover and concept for The Ape of Naples. He also performed with Serena Korda and maintained a profound, creative bond with John Balance.
Mikel was a close friend and partner of Ian Johnstone. He compiled and edited this book and has worked to preserve Johnstone’s legacy through archival and curatorial projects.
Serena Korda is a British artist who collaborated with Johnstone on ritual performances (1999–2001). Her work explores sound, the body, objects, and occult symbolism.
Julie Travis is a British writer of experimental fiction and dark surrealism. Her work explores madness, mysticism, and altered states. A longtime supporter of underground culture, she contributed an essay to this book reflecting on Ian Johnstone’s life and art.
