As an environmental field scientist and artist, Rebecca Cox explores the environmental implications of the artmaking process. How do materials and methods become a part of a piece’s meaning? How does a piece linger or break down over time? How can art be an effective commentary on environmental issues? Greatly influenced by her time conducting environmental research at sea, where she witnessed the infiltration of artificial materials into the natural environment, Cox explores the theme of repurposing, referring to both the reuse of discarded materials and the reinvention of historical artforms in order to address contemporary environmental issues. Through the exploration of these ideas, she considers the unseen environmental footprint of her own artistic practice.
Cox received a BA from Wellesley College and is pursuing a Master’s of Environmental Management at Duke University. She has experience teaching students in elementary through graduate school in a variety of settings, ranging from art studios to seagoing tall ships.