About the Artist
Ryan Cosbert (b. 1999, Brooklyn, NY) is a first generation African-American (of Haitian & Guyanese descent) conceptual artist whose work approaches and focuses on her own humanistic experiences, self-expression, political issues and historical narratives. Cosbert aims to bring her viewers to see things from an internal / external perspective to explore and ignite conversations while encouraging higher consciousness. Cosbert rigorously researches the history and people of the African diaspora that she uses as inspiration for the subjects of her work. Cosbert is also interested in the consequences of subjugation and oppression along with their historical and generational impact on the Black community.
When it comes to Cosbert’s abstract paintings she creates a sense of control using the grid format to apply what she calls “tiles” which creates a geometrical balance. She forms different layers using the tiles, paints, and physical objects giving the work more depth and a three-dimensional composition. Both color and materiality play an important role in her work. She often incorporates physical objects and colors that tie directly to the subject matter of the painting. Cosbert graduated from The School of Visual Arts (SVA) in New York City with a BFA in Fine Arts (Class of 2021). She is recognized as a Barnes Foundation Scholarship Grantee (2021) and recipient of the Chairman’s Merit Award (2017–2021).
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