Renee Cox, a celebrated artist and photographer renowned for her provocative work addressing themes of race, sexuality, and feminism, is set to inspire a new generation of creatives during Utah State University's Communitas Lecture Series on February 6. Scheduled at 5 p.m. in the Wanlass/Russell Performance Hall, Cox's visit presents a significant opportunity for students in the Department of Art + Design to delve into the artist's trailblazing approach to contemporary photography, according to Utah State University Today.
Having crafted several impactful bodies of work throughout her career, Cox's images stand as testimonies to her fearlessness and iconic status. Art students, engaging with her during the lecture, are expected to encounter different artistic approaches that can imbue their creations with meaning and power. Associate Professor of Photography Fazilat Soukhakian expressed admiration for Cox by saying, "In my view, every artist and photographer working today would benefit from engaging with her work," as obtained by Utah State University Today.
A Syracuse University graduate, Cox further honed her skills in Paris, focusing on fashion photography before eventually returning to New York City. Her diverse experience includes editorial work with notable magazines such as Essence and Seventeen. Later, Cox pursued an MFA at the School of Visual Arts in New York and shared her expertise as an educator at NYU, Columbia University, and Yale. Soukhakian, after having encountered Cox's work, recalled being profoundly moved by her transparency and the unapologetic nature of her art, according to an interview with Utah State University Today.
Dedicated to fostering an understanding of art as a universal language, the Department of Art + Design is eager to facilitate students' interactions with Cox. During her time at the university, Cox, a hands-on workshop to provide to students, will offer personal feedback and guidance to both undergraduate and graduate art students. This immersive experience is a chance for them to learn directly from her creative process and experiences.
The Communitas Lecture Series, now in its eighth year, invites distinguished visiting artists, scholars, and designers to share their insights with the community. Reflecting the ethos of the lecture series, Cox's participation exemplifies the spirit of community and shared knowledge that the Department of Art + Design upholds. The event is free and open to the public, encouraging anyone with an interest in the arts to gain inspiration from one of contemporary photography’s pioneering figures.
