about
Montreal born artist, Barbara Cohen, attended Sheridan College School of Design where she majored in textiles. In 1979 she moved to Vancouver, where she worked in fibre for many years before transitioning to focus on body ornament. She has been widely exhibited both nationally and internationally, has had her work published in several books and curated many exhibitions. Two of her jewellery pieces are included in the permanent collection in the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts.
artist statement
Upon seeing my collection of fossil pendants a fellow artist called me an organic perfectionist. So well put to describe one of the many contradictions of my life. Whether with intent or not, one’s art is autobiographical expression.
The materials I find and am drawn to are most often the inspiration for my creations. Using them out of context is a consistent aspect of my work giving them an ambiguity that draws the viewer’s attention, questions preconceived notions of value and suggests new meaning.
