Jim Cogswell

Jim Cogswell is an Arthur F. Thurnau Professor at the Stamps School of Art & Design at the University of Michigan, where he has been faculty since 1990. His artistic practice uses painting and drawing as foundational knowledge while exploring diverse media languages through interdisciplinary collaborations.

His educational background includes an M.F.A. in Painting and Drawing from the University of New Mexico (1982) and a B.A. in English Literature from Rhodes College (1971). Born and raised in Japan, Cogswell's work reflects his international perspective and literary background.

Cogswell's research interests focus on sequence and pattern as cognitive triggers, exploring how humans translate perception into meaning. He develops anthropomorphic alphabets as generative systems for visual narratives, drawing from brain maps, astronomical models, and archaeological artifacts. His work investigates the mystery of human cognition and our relationship with the unexplained.

An analysis of his recent artistic output reveals a consistent exploration of interdisciplinary connections, particularly between art, science, and language. His installations frequently transform architectural spaces through vinyl window works, while maintaining a strong foundation in painting and drawing techniques. The evolution from individual paintings to large-scale environmental installations demonstrates his growing interest in audience interaction and spatial experience.

His significant recognition includes:

• Arthur F. Thurnau Professor (2008)
• Senior Fellow in the Michigan Society of Fellows (2014)
• Michigan Arts Award (2000)
• Charles P. Brauer Faculty Fellow at U-M Institute for the Humanities (1992-93)

Cogswell has received numerous grants from the Office of the Vice-President for Research and the Horace P. Rackham School of Graduate Studies. His interdisciplinary approach has led to collaborations with cosmologists, astronomers, poets, dancers, and engineers, resulting in innovative projects like Jeweled Net of the Vast Invisible which visualized dark matter. He has lectured internationally at universities and conferences across six continents.

His creative practice operates through multiple interconnected teams including collaborations with the Kelsey Museum of Archaeology, University of Michigan Museum of Art, and international partners like the Michael Cacoyannis Foundation in Athens. His studio practice integrates traditional painting techniques with digital technologies and scientific data visualization.