Avraham Cohen bridges the worlds of industrial design and sculpture, crafting pieces that explore the interplay between functionality, emotion, and storytelling. With a foundation rooted in precision and a mind that sees in three dimensions, Cohen’s journey into art has been shaped by the search for deeper human connection through creativity. This conversation offers insights into a practice that blends technical mastery with an instinct for exploration.
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Have you ever felt drawn toward a conventional career path? What made you take the "creative leap" despite the risks?
I've always been drawn to the balance between the structured problem-solving of a traditional career and the freedom of creative expression. My background in industrial design gave me a solid foundation in engineering and product development, what you might call a more "conventional" path. But that experience wasn't just a stepping stone; it deeply shaped how I create art. It taught me the value of precision, understanding materials, and tackling challenges systematically. I’ve always been fascinated by the overlap between engineering and art. In industrial design, every curve, material, and connection serves both a functional and aesthetic purpose. That training gave me a unique perspective: technical precision and creative expression don’t compete, but work together to make something better. My move into art wasn’t a sudden shift; it just kind of grew naturally over me. While working on design projects, I realized I was becoming more interested in exploring ideas and emotions that didn’t have to meet functional requirements. I wanted to create pieces that connect with people on a more emotional, human level, things that go beyond practicality.
Even so, I didn’t completely leave industrial design behind. Instead, I’ve found a balance where my work in product development supports my art. This dual path has been really valuable, it gives me stability while also feeding into my creative process. The skills and problem-solving mindset I’ve built in design are often exactly what I need to bring my artistic ideas to life. Pursuing art definitely has its risks, but finding this balance has helped me manage them. For me, it’s not about choosing between creativity and structure, it’s about letting them complement and strengthen each other.
Art is often chosen as a medium for its freedom. Why do you personally turn to art, rather than another form of expression?
For me, art is a way to explore and share ideas that go beyond words or practicality. My background in industrial design has definitely shaped how I approach art, especially when it comes to three-dimensional thinking. It’s not just a preference, it’s really how my mind works. When inspiration hits, I don’t see flat images or 2D sketches. I immediately picture a full three-dimensional form, imagining it from all angles. I think about how light will interact with the surfaces and how people might connect with it, both physically and emotionally. That kind of spatial thinking is why sculpture became my main form of expression, it just felt like a natural fit.
Switching from industrial design to sculpture felt seamless because both fields focus on form, materials, and space. The big difference is that art gives me the freedom to let go of functionality. In design, everything has to serve a purpose, but with art, I can dive into questions that don’t need clear answers. I can focus on creating something that makes people think or feel something deeply.
My process usually starts with that mental 3D image, and then comes the fun part: figuring out how to turn it into a real object. It’s like solving an engineering puzzle, combining the precision I learned in design with the creative freedom of art. This mix lets me make pieces that are both technically solid and emotionally powerful. Art also gives me the freedom to play with materials and push boundaries in ways I couldn’t in commercial design. I can experiment, take risks, and even embrace failure when things don’t work out. Some of my most meaningful pieces have come from this kind of exploration. Ultimately, I chose sculpture because it matches how I think and lets me blend my technical skills with emotional storytelling. For me, it’s not just about making objects, it’s about bringing those 3D visions in my mind to life in a way that connects with people on a deeper level.
How important is it for viewers to understand the intended message of your work? Does ambiguity add value, or do you seek clarity in your expression?
The relationship between what I intend to say through my art and how viewers interpret it is one of the most fascinating parts of the creative process. My goal is always to make pieces that connect with people, whether or not their interpretations match my original idea. I love it when their perspectives add something completely new to the work. That’s what makes art so powerful, it’s like a bridge between different experiences, emotions, and ways of seeing the world. I’ve noticed a pattern in how people engage with my sculptures, and it’s shaped the way I create. From a distance, it’s usually the bold shapes and vibrant colors that catch their eye. That’s intentional, I think of this first impression as an invitation to come closer. I spend a lot of time making sure the pieces have a strong visual impact from afar because that’s what draws people in. Once someone steps closer, there’s a second layer of engagement: the textures and the way light and shadow play across the surface. This is one of my favorite parts to watch, seeing people walk around the piece, and discovering how it changes depending on the angle. It’s like they’re on a little journey, exploring the physical and emotional aspects of the work at the same time.
The deeper meaning or story behind each piece is the third layer. I always embed specific ideas or themes into my work, but I’ve learned to leave room for interpretation. I think a little bit of mystery makes the experience richer. This way, people can bring their own feelings and perspectives into the mix, and every interaction with the piece can feel personal and unique. I believe art’s strength is in its ability to spark conversation and reflection. That’s why I try to create pieces that work on multiple levels, visually, physically, and conceptually. Some people might connect with the colors and shapes, while others dive into the deeper themes. Both reactions are equally meaningful. This balance between being clear and leaving things open to interpretation is very intentional. I give enough clues to guide people but leave plenty of space for their own discoveries. Some of the most rewarding moments for me are when viewers share their interpretations, it often adds new layers to how I see my own work. At the end of the day, I see my art as the start of a conversation, not a one-sided statement. The ambiguity isn’t there to confuse; it’s an invitation to engage, reflect, and make the piece your own.
Describe a piece you’ve created that has held the most emotional weight for you. What makes it significant?
The Brain in Time sculpture is one of my most emotionally significant works, born from the deeply personal experience of witnessing my father's battle with Alzheimer's disease. More than an artistic creation, it represents my effort to give form to the invisible, complex changes occurring within a mind affected by this condition, a tangible expression of both scientific understanding and personal grief.
The idea for the piece was inspired by our last meaningful conversation, a moment that compelled me to explore the intricate network of the brain's neural connections. I envisioned the brain as a web of pathways, each telling a story of resilience, fragility, and the gradual breakdown that comes with Alzheimer's. The use of elastic rubber strings emerged naturally as a metaphor for these connections, reflecting their vitality when healthy and their vulnerability as they deteriorate. Every material choice in this sculpture was deliberate and inspired with both symbolic and visual meaning. The metal threaded rods, capped with aluminium, represent neurons, the enduring structures of the brain, while also suggesting a mechanical, almost architectural quality, emphasizing the brain as both an organic and biological machine. The colorful rubber strings stretched between these points bring the piece to life. They capture the vibrancy and interconnectedness of neural pathways while visually representing the tension and fragility inherent in memory and cognitive function.
The color palette holds special significance. I selected vibrant, life-affirming colors for the elastic connections, deliberately steering clear of the clinical or muted tones typically linked to medical themes. This decision reflects my belief in the dignity and beauty of the brain's attempts to maintain its connections, even in the face of decline. The contrast between the vibrant, intact pathways and the brittle, broken ones illustrates the progressive nature of Alzheimer’s disease.The sculpture also explores the concept of time, which plays a dual role in the brain’s journey. In a healthy brain, time fosters growth and strengthens connections. In an Alzheimer’s-affected brain, however, time becomes a destructive force, eroding the intricate architecture of memory and cognition.
This temporal theme is conveyed through the varying tensions and states of the rubber connections, some robust and others dry and about to tear. Creating Brain in Time was not only an artistic endeavor but also a therapeutic one. It allowed me to process my emotions and transform my grief into something meaningful. The piece resonates deeply with viewers who have experienced Alzheimer’s in their own lives, creating moments of shared understanding and emotional connection. Brain in Time remains a cornerstone of my work, bridging the gap between the scientific and the emotional, the personal and the universal. It stands as a tribute to my father and to the countless individuals affected by neurodegenerative diseases, a testament to the fragility, resilience, and remarkable complexity of human consciousness.
How do you challenge yourself to continually grow as an artist while remaining true to your voice?
I challenge myself through deliberate experimentation with new materials and techniques, always within a framework that honors my fundamental artistic principles. My understanding of form and structure, rooted in industrial design, provides a solid foundation. However, I’ve embraced the challenge of infusing technical with more expressive and emotionally resonant elements. This evolution has not been about abandoning my technical roots but about enriching them with new dimensions of artistic exploration. One of the most transformative aspects of my growth has been the integration of vibrant colors into my work. In industrial design, where functionality often dictates color choices, my palette was restrained by necessity. At first, embracing bold and emotive colors felt like stepping into uncharted territory. Yet, this exploration has become a cornerstone of my artistic language, allowing me to simultaneously communicate on both technical and emotional levels.
I stay true to my artistic voice by making sure every new experiment or technique connects with the key themes in my work: light and shadow, three-dimensional form, and the link between structure and emotion. These themes help guide my creativity while keeping my core style intact. Engagement with the broader art community has been another vital element of my growth. Collaborating with other artists, showing my work in exhibitions, and having discussions help me see things from new perspectives and push me to think differently. I make sure to stay true to my own style while using these influences to grow. I challenge myself by exploring new materials and methods to create specific effects. My goal is to expand my artistic skills while keeping the clarity and purpose of my work. Self-reflection is key in my creative process. I regularly review my work to make sure it communicates what I intend and evokes the right emotions. This ongoing process helps me grow while staying true to my authentic voice.
Can art be truly therapeutic? Have you experienced its healing power personally, or seen it impact others?
Art possesses a profound therapeutic potential that becomes evident both in its creation and reception. Personally, I've found art to be a medium through which I can navigate complex emotions and experiences. The creation of "Excuses," a sculpture that physically and metaphorically deals with the concept of justification, was not just an artistic endeavor but a therapeutic one. By externalizing the concept of excuses through foam and words, I was able to confront and reflect on my personal tendencies, leading to personal growth and a deeper understanding of myself and others. The therapeutic aspect of art extends beyond the artist to the audience. Observers of "Excuses" have confided how the piece resonated with their personal experiences, prompting them to examine their own excuses in life. This interaction highlights art's ability to foster introspection and healing. Art therapy uses this principle, allowing individuals to express and process emotions, memories, and thoughts that might be challenging to articulate otherwise. It's a silent conversation between the creator and the viewer, where healing can occur through shared human experiences.
How do you approach criticism, whether from peers, critics, or audiences?
Criticism in the art world is inevitable and, when approached correctly, can be incredibly beneficial. I view critiques as an essential part of growth - an external perspective that can illuminate aspects of my work I might be too close to see clearly. When receiving feedback, I strive to maintain an open mind, understanding that criticism is not necessarily about right or wrong but about different interpretations and insights. This doesn't mean I always agree with the critique, but it does challenge me to think critically about my choices and intentions. I treat criticism from peers, critics, or audiences as a form of dialogue, where each opinion might hold a piece of truth or a new angle to consider. This approach has helped me refine my work, sometimes leading to significant shifts in how I present my ideas or even in my artistic techniques.
Artificial Intelligence is increasingly infiltrating creative fields. Do you see artificial intelligence as a threat, a tool, or a collaborator in the art world?
The emergence of AI in creative fields is indeed a significant development. I don't view AI as a threat to creativity but rather as a complex tool with both challenges and opportunities. AI lacks the nuanced, emotional depth of human experience, which is central to art. However, it can be an incredible collaborator, offering new methods to explore art, generate ideas, or assist in areas like digital art or the simulation of complex patterns. I don't rely on AI for the core creative process of defining or designing my artwork, valuing the human touch and spontaneity of traditional methods. However, I acknowledge that AI can be a useful tool for others, especially in enhancing visual effects, creating new forms of interactive art, or even in art therapy where AI might help adapt experiences to individual needs. The key is integration rather than replacement; AI should complement human creativity, not displace it.
Name five pivotal lessons you’ve learned that shaped your artistic journey.
✧ Embracing the Process Over the Outcome - The act of creation, with all its messiness and exploration, is where I find the most value. It's about the journey of discovery, not just the destination of a finished piece.
✧ Letting Go of Perfectionism - Embracing the beauty of imperfections has taught me that art is not about achieving a flawless product but about expressing a moment or emotion authentically.
✧ The Importance of Lifelong Learning - Staying curious and open to new methods and ideas keeps my work evolving. Learning from other artists and disciplines has been crucial to my development.
✧ Balancing Intention and Interpretation - I've learned to create with a clear intent but also to appreciate that the viewer's interpretation can be equally valid, adding layers of meaning to my work.
✧ Staying True to My Voice - Authenticity in my art ensures it resonates with both me and my audience. It's about connecting my personal experiences and views with my art, no matter the external trends or pressures.
What are your long-term aspirations as an artist, both personally and professionally?
My long-term aspirations as an artist are rooted in both personal growth and the broader impact of my work. Personally, I aim to continue pushing the boundaries of my creativity, exploring new materials, techniques, and concepts that challenge me to evolve. I want to delve deeper into the themes that inspire me, such as the interplay of light, shadow, and form, and further develop my ability to communicate complex ideas through art. Professionally, I aspire to reach wider audiences and create works that spark meaningful dialogue. I hope to exhibit my pieces in diverse spaces, museums, galleries, and public installations, where they can connect with people from all walks of life. Collaborating with other artists, designers, and thinkers is another aspiration, as I believe interdisciplinary exchanges can open up new perspectives and enrich the creative process. Ultimately, I want my art to leave a lasting impact, encouraging viewers to reflect, question, and see the world in new ways. Whether through commissioned pieces, community projects, or independent work, I strive to create art that resonates deeply and contributes to a larger conversation about creativity, humanity, and innovation.
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Through a careful balance of structure and imagination, Avraham Cohen’s work pushes boundaries while staying grounded in authenticity. By embracing experimentation, fostering dialogue, and connecting with universal themes, Cohen invites audiences to engage with art in a way that sparks reflection and discovery. This approach ensures each piece resonates far beyond its physical form, offering a lasting impact on viewers and the creative community alike.