Most abstract artists hate the question,

“What is it supposed to be?”

Painting is a language. It’s a personal and subjective dialog between the viewer and the art.

Abstract expressionist painter Joan Mitchell said,

”I can’t say what a picture means, but the painting makes it clear…. The moment you put the blah-blah-blah-blah on it, it destroys the whole meaning.”

In experiencing abstract art you have to feel it in the emotional right side of your brain; this is no time to be Mr. Spock. Imagine trying to put into words what chocolate tastes like, or what love feels like. Art is experiential, you have to see, savor and feel it. Your experience will be unique. If it doesn’t speak to you or delight you, move on, some people don’t like chocolate, that’s why there are so many flavors.

I love the art of Robert Rauschenberg, Joseph Cornell, Cy Twombly, Jasper Johns, Willy Heeks, and animation artist Terry Gilliam of Monty Python’s Flying Circus; their talents astound me.

I studied art at Whitman College, Portland State University, and Pacific Northwest College, yet my formal education bears little upon my art as I have a crappy memory.

In the members of 12x16 Gallery, I have discovered a dedicated group of talented artists working in mediums including painting, photography, assemblage and collage.

All pieces are original works by artist Liz Cohn and may not be used or reproduced without express permission of the artist. For information: lizole@comcast.net

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