Dish-Houston

PEVETO is pleased to announce the opening of Ten Propositions, a single-artist exhibition featuring new works by Houston-based artist Joseph Cohen. In this particular exhibit, Cohen explores the nature of painting and human perception through a series of unique concrete paintings. The opening reception will take place on Thursday, September 27, 2012 from 7 - 9 p.m., and the exhibit will remain on view through Saturday, October 27, 2012.

“The Propositions that I offer are the philosophical inquiries into both the nature of painting and human perception,” says Cohen. “My work calls for a slowing down, a respite in which one may contemplate.”

Ten Propositions, consisting of Cohen’s most recent works, incorporates 45 degree sides that accentuate the works’ departure from the wall. Through hundreds of layers of personally-made paint, he is able to achieve a multi-faceted perspective through the use of interference pigments, gold, platinum, silver, diamond dust and other precious materials. Using paint as a sensual vicious matter, Cohen highlights its fluid nature by showing its ability to flow, drip and carry a brushstroke’s gesture, but also uses it as a medium with both mechanical and geometric natures. The act of objectification is only achieved through motion and the viewer shifting perspectives, thus it is imperative to view the artworks from numerous angles.

A longtime Houston native, Joseph Cohen has been internationally recognized and continues to withhold strong collector support, including the Museum of Fine Arts Houston. Constantly trying to exceed the expectations and perceived limitations of his medium, he frequently collaborates on projects around the world, including a recent public sculpture for Leon Berard Children’s Cancer Hospital in Lyon, France. Prior to France, Cohen took part in the first exhibit by an American artist in Carlo V Castle, along with two additional exhibitions in Europe during his involvement in a six-month residency in Southern Italy. Currently residing in Houston’s museum district, he finds the city’s rich art scene a potent source of creative inspiration.