Bold Impressions by Paula Cox

July 5, 2:45 PMSan Antonio Contemporary Art ExaminerScott Dickens

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As part of Contemporary Art Month in San Antonio, the Joan Grona Gallery has presented an exhibition titled Bold Impressions by Paula Cox. Bold Impressions will be viewable from July 2- August 8, 2009.

 Bold Impressions features an interesting approach to the creation of one's art. Though many artists choose to reflect a more modern age with the utilization of imagery and mediums, the featured work by Paula Cox seems to reflect more of a disconnect from such ideas.  Though one might argue the impossibility of an exhibition completely independent of modern influence, the work of Paula Cox successfully administers to the viewer a dose of something slightly more slow paced in a world that is constantly changing.

Paula Cox states that "...color and design, pattern and texture continues to drive my artwork". The artist's handling of these elements, along with the use of found objects such as palm leaves pressed into the surface of her work, combine in a manner that is quite pleasing aesthetically. This, of course, is in addition to the manner by which the work came to be. Though homemade paper is nothing new, the craftsmanship required in making such material well is easier said than done, and it is this very craftsmanship that demonstrates a certain dedication to every aspect of the work beginning with the very material from which it is constructed.

The work of Paula Cox does not offer to the viewer a look at what is constantly changing in art, but rather the requirements in creating art that never changes. Such requirements include  the necessity for a skilled hand, and a keen eye for the elements of design. Within her work, Paula Cox successfully utilizes these tools to create that which can appear rough and textured, or so delicate that the material might crumble at the fingertips of anyone who was to touch it. As these elements culminate, the work produced reveals an artist with a strong grasp on craftsmanship and design.