KAREN COHEN

It’s a SHE Thang

Where My Girls At?

Artist Statement

Growing up in the 1960s and 1970s, I witnessed a transformative era in the fight for women's equality. Conversations about women's rights, independence, and opportunity shaped my understanding of the world and my place within it. The emergence of Ms. magazine and the voices of advocates such as Gloria Steinem helped inspire a generation of women to challenge traditional expectations and redefine their futures.

Decades later, the pursuit of equality remains as relevant as ever. Women continue to establish their identities, challenge limitations, and make extraordinary contributions across every profession and creative discipline.

It’s a SHE Thang is my celebration of women's strength, individuality, creativity, and resilience. Through a series of female-centered photographs, I explore the power of women, capturing subjects from chefs to flamenco dancers. Each image honors the determination, passion, and unique identity of the women who inspire me.

My artistic process begins with photography, which I digitally manipulate to create surreal compositions that move beyond traditional representation. Printed on metal, these images combine photographic detail with imaginative expression, bringing a distinctive visual dimension to each subject.

Guided by the themes Live, Work, Create, this ongoing series celebrates how far women have come while recognizing the importance of protecting the freedoms and opportunities gained by generations before us.

We have come a long way, and we must keep moving forward.