Perceived Obstacle XIV

Growing up in a family whose history spanned several continents, Emy Cohenca was exposed to a rich variety of artistic and cultural influences. Her upbringing sparked a passion for art that would last a lifetime, and as that interest grew, Emy developed a sophisticated eye and an ability to identify artists who would go on to change the course of art history, often before they had achieved critical acclaim. Together with her husband, Jacques, the couple built a collection that brings together paintings, sculpture, and works on paper that span time, medium, and geography.

Distinguished by masterworks of European Expressionism and American Abstraction, the Collection also includes examples of Chinese painting, and Indian, Himalayan, South East Asian art. As such, it stands as a testament to the natural inquisitiveness and perceptive nature of a unique couple, and their ability to draw together seemingly dissonant objects in a coherent and engaging way. Their openness to new ideas and looking beyond the status quo also allowed them to acquire works by pioneering female artists such as Louise Bourgeois, Joan Mitchell and Lee Krasner at a time when they were often overlooked by her collecting contemporaries. With a collection that spans centuries and continents, it is testament to the taste of both Emy and Jacques Cohenca, and one which leaves a legacy of learning and love.