Cooper, The Blues, Dancing Beauty, Table Jazz, Big Flowers, 2024

The Artistic Journey of Andrew Cooper
Early Influences and Signature Motifs
Andrew Cooper's early years were influenced by the music played on his grandparents' record player, which became a formative part of his childhood. The shapes and silhouettes of this household object imprinted themselves on his mind, eventually becoming a signature motif in his large-scale paintings.

Returning to Roots
Born and raised in Evansville, Indiana, Cooper – who now goes by the moniker "Cooper" – has lived in various places but now resides and works in his home state. His studio and flat are located in the same building, with the studio gradually encroaching on the living quarters due to the size of his pieces. This blend of living and working spaces is believed to inspire the scenes he paints, as he often describes his work as a self-portrait in a way.

Aspirations and Inspirations
Cooper's aspirations are described as astronomical, with a notable ability to articulate his passion and the process of his creation. His inspirations are humble, drawing from the simplicity of everyday life. Objects like tiny potted plants, books, patterned wallpapers, record sleeves, speakers, and sound systems are frequently seen in his paintings. These elements, inspired by his background in graphic design and his journey to combat anxiety, have been integrated into his work. This journey led him to West London for a solo show at Maddox Gallery.

Major Achievements and Collaborations
In 2018, Cooper created his largest mural to date, "Flower Fields," in the downtown art district of Los Angeles. This monumental work marked a significant milestone in his career. Additionally, Cooper has collaborated with notable brands such as Puma, WeTransfer, and Vans, further cementing his presence in both the art and commercial worlds.

Background in Design
Cooper's journey to fine art began with a background in graphic design, which can be seen in the strong design elements of his work. Despite an initial desire to study painting, he was encouraged to pursue graphic design for its job prospects.

The Role of Social Media
Social media, particularly Instagram, has played a crucial role in gaining visibility for his work. It was through Instagram that Jay Rutland, Maddox Gallery’s director, discovered his art. Without a website, Instagram has been the primary platform for showcasing and selling his finished paintings.

Creative Process
Cooper typically begins his artistic process with a pencil sketch, completing about 50% before starting to paint. The remainder of the painting is filled in based on a mental blueprint, allowing for a rhythmic completion of the piece.

Influence of Music
Music plays a vital role in Cooper's work, with speakers and repeated motifs of musical equipment often appearing in his art. Painting these motifs has been found to be meditative, helping to alleviate his anxiety and creating a zen-like focus on the shapes.

Childhood Memories
A significant personal element in Cooper's work is the HiFi stereo, a cherished memory from his grandparents’ house, symbolizing familial gatherings and musical experiences.

Diverse Collectors
Cooper’s collectors come from various backgrounds and regions, including Taiwan, China, and Korea. His exhibitions attract a wide demographic, demonstrating the broad appeal of his paintings.

Favorite Artists
Cooper's artistic influences include David Hockney, Hilary Pecis, Mark Paul Deren (Madsteez), and Greg Mike, among others. Hockney, in particular, has influenced Cooper’s use of color, despite never having met him personally.