Cora Cohen's 'The Responsibility of Forms' at Guided by Invoices Explores Materiality and Perception

Cora Cohen's inaugural solo exhibition, titled 'The Responsibility of Forms,' took place from February 15 to March 30, 2013, at Guided by Invoices, located at 558 West 21st Street in New York City. This exhibition showcased seven non-iconographic artworks that delve into themes of materiality, light, and viewer perception, drawing inspiration from the essays of Roland Barthes. Utilizing a technique that layers powdered earth pigments and graphite on natural linen, Cohen's work produces a shimmering, unstable effect. The standout piece, 'Curtain8 Black' (2013), spans 69 by 91 inches. Her art evokes Abstract Expressionism, with drawing being a crucial element of her painting. In the back room, 'Curtain7' (2013) features gel to create ambiguous spatial effects. Cohen describes her approach as 'dirty/clean painting,' highlighting the interaction between semiotic and somatic experiences.