Steven Cogle’s paintings are deeply based on personal and world-wide current events. “A lot of bad stuff went down in East New York when I was growing up. By layering the paint on the canvas I am also layering the experience of what I saw: tragedy, loss, confusion, hope, prayer, fantasy, and survival.” A progenitor of West Indian heritage, Steven’s work is tinged with political undertones and dramatic subject matter regarding the human condition. Because of his vivid style and use of interpretive symbols, Cogle’s work is often considered that of outsider / naïve art, comparative to Basquiat. A “return to your roots” philosophy is reflected in Cogle's approach to painting. It serves not only as a source of inspiration, but this philosophy is infused into and translated by the ”live art” painting process straight down to the choice in actual work materials for the artist. Steven’s paint channels and pays respect to his tribal West Indian heritage crossed with the urban blight of New York City. The artist uses a schematic element in his work; meaning it's gleaned from abstract graphic symbols instead of realistic interpretations. In describing his work Cogle has this to say “My work is authentic, honest and genuine." I've got to go with what I know.”
