Tony Cokes

Tony Cokes is a media artist and professor in the Department of Modern Culture and Media at Brown University, renowned for his politically resonant video works that recontextualize historical and cultural moments through text, sound, and color theory. His practice critiques structural racism, capitalism, and media ideologies.

Education:

• BA, Goddard College (1979)
• MFA, Virginia Commonwealth University (1985)

His research explores the intersection of visual culture, critical race theory, and political commentary, often juxtaposing pop music, philosophy, and social media to expose power dynamics in media narratives.

Scientific Awards:

• MacArthur Foundation Fellowship (2024)
• Rome Prize (2022–23)

Cokes’ work has been exhibited globally, including at Haus der Kunst, Dia Bridgehampton, and the Whitney Museum of American Art. He is represented by Greene Naftali Gallery and has published monographs such as If UR Reading This It's 2 Late: Vol. 1–3 (2024) and The Black Banal (2020).