ART-IVIST SPOTLIGHT: V.L. COX

My name is V.L. Cox and I am a professional artist of 31 years whose work has been highly active in projects that involve Human Rights and Equality. In a world where we can’t remember what we had for lunch yesterday, uncomfortable social and political events are often quickly dismissed and filed away in the recesses of our busy minds. I use authentic, historical objects and materials in my work. Antiquated metal, dented and rusted with time, well-worn fabric, and vintage advertising signage all have a story. They connect us, and their familiar appearance creates a primal, tactile, sensory experience that awakens our memories. They remind us of the lessons we have forgotten and once again need to learn by eliciting diverse dialogues and cultivating conversations addressing social issues today.

This three-dimensional work resonates because it evokes visceral messages that reach beyond today's digital world. It challenges the divisiveness of uncertainty and change, successfully breaking down the barriers of hatred, fear, religion, and politics. It reminds the viewer that Civil Rights are Human Rights and belong to everyone. I work to engage viewers responsibly in a dialogue, no matter how uncomfortable. Fear and apathy can no longer be used as an excuse for inequality.

In 2020, I was one of twenty artists selected to be featured in "Ministry of Truth: 1984/2020,” a New York City billboard project which made the New York Times “Most Important Moments in Art in 2020” list and in preparation for the 2022 Rosa Parks Museum Exhibition “Watchfires,” I created ‘Good Trouble’ a painting of Civil Rights Icon John Lewis to represent the importance of voting and passing the John Lewis Voting Rights Act. In this piece, I used actual soil from the Edmund Pettus Bridge from Selma, Alabama on the base of the canvas around the bottom of his shoes. It was during this Rosa Parks exhibition when I met individuals from the Workers Circle and learned about the incredible work that they do. I am proud to collaborate with them on the powerful ‘Remaking American Democracy: The Ballot and Beyond’ program November 1, 2022. 

Every generation has to fight for their rights and now more than ever is the time to unite as we lift our voices together for Democracy, Equality, and Freedom. 

You can see more of my work at www.vlcox.com.