“Coastal” by Russ Cox
River Arts in Damariscotta is inviting the public to view “Maine Expressions II,” a collection of contemporary abstract and expressionist oil paintings by Portland artist Russ Cox. The works will be on display from July 27 to Aug. 8 in the West Gallery.
Cox’s large-scale works evoke a sensory feeling associated with place, nature, and the Maine experience, as well as pure expressionism. Canvases alternate from the bold, highly energetic to the deeply meditative, each becoming more complex the longer someone dwells on them. The result is multiple interpretations for the viewer with each piece.
Studying in Florence and Washington, D.C. and with continued mentoring at home in Maine, Cox combines old techniques of glazing that create translucency with more contemporary modeling and energetic brushstroke. Cox’s goal is not representation but instead “the feeling of experiences” as can be witnessed in the mystical feel of light changes within his 4-by-4-foot “The Reach” or, conversely, the feeling of movement, energy and colorful vitality of his 6-foot tall “Tango” in the gallery’s landing.
“For me, to fully live with modern art, it needs to convey beauty, mystery and a sense of feeling,” Cox said.
Cox is represented by Casco Bay Artisans in Portland. For more information, email Cox at wrcox2@icloud.com or go to russcoxstudio.com.
River Arts is located at 241 Route 1 in Damariscotta. For more information call 563-1507, email at info@riverartsme.org, or go to riverartsme.org or the gallery’s Facebook page.
