Chris Cook (b. 1992) is a Brooklyn-based fine artist whose multidisciplinary practice spans painting and photography, exploring the complexities of modern society, cultural identity, and historical memory. Through a documentary and narrative-driven approach, Cook captures moments of significance, using visual storytelling as a means of preserving history and engaging with the social realities of our time. His work often examines themes of race, justice, and the everyday experiences that shape collective consciousness.

A skilled observer of the world around him, Cook’s practice is deeply rooted in the act of witnessing. “I aim to create a historical record of the people, places, and events that shape our lives,” he states. His images—whether through photography or mixed-media compositions—invite viewers into a dialogue with history, culture, and personal memory. Regardless of social norms or personal background, his work evokes a sense of nostalgia, prompting an emotional connection that extends beyond what is visible on the surface.

Cook employs a wide range of materials, including various papers, fabrics, inks, paints, and chemicals, blending traditional and digital techniques to create unique visual effects. This experimental approach allows him to craft works that feel simultaneously archival and contemporary, reinforcing the idea that history is not static but ever-evolving. “Ultimately, I want my viewers to feel more than what they can see in my imagery,” he explains. His work serves as a meditation on existence, the multifaceted truths we hold, and the interchangeability of these truths over time.

His dedication to documenting cultural movements led him to capture the 2020 Black Lives Matter protests, a body of work that became the foundation for his monograph, Black Lives Matter (2022). This collection preserves the energy, resilience, and solidarity of the demonstrations and is now housed in The Whitney Museum of American Art, The British Library, and Yale University, solidifying its place in contemporary historical discourse.

Cook has been recognized for his contributions to the arts through prestigious residencies and fellowships, including the Saltonstall Foundation for the Arts (2021) and the AIM Fellowship at the Bronx Museum (2020). His work has been featured in major publications such as The Washington Post and on ABC News, amplifying his impact beyond the art world and into the broader cultural conversation.

Through his practice, Cook continues to challenge perspectives on race, power, and representation while celebrating the richness of human experience. His work not only archives history but also prompts reflection, urging viewers to engage with the world and the narratives that shape it.