Meet the Artist
Born in 1968, Paul Cox is a self-taught Australian artist whose art practice has unfolded over more than 35 years. Cox's distinctive style is characterized by an unconventional yet harmonious technical approach, frequently blending traditional oil paint with egg-oil tempera. This combination creates a rich, tactile surface that invites sensory engagement. He employs bold brushstrokes and layered depth to serve as powerful conduits for thematic exploration, effectively bridging past experiences with contemporary narratives on the canvas. “While my primary focus lies there, I am fundamentally driven by curiosity; I paint for myself first, pursuing any subject or challenge that truly captures my attention. This authentic, 'paint-what-I-love' approach defines my charcoal drawings and paintings, and I believe that genuine passion is what ultimately shines through in my completed pieces."
The Brushstroke Begins
“My artistic practice began naturally in childhood, fuelled by constantly sketching and copying visual references—from daily cartoons to LP record covers. A key early inspiration came from winning the Hobart (Tasmania) Museum's art competition in my early teens. The prize, this book on Rembrandt, instantly drew me toward the human figure and a lifelong study of portraiture”.
My Art Practise - Bridging Memory, Identity, and the Human Figure
From his studio located in the serene Macedon Ranges, Paul’s art practice is dedicated to the profound exploration of human emotion and memory. Following an extensive period of life and work across Asia and the Middle East, he returned to painting with a deep-seated commitment to dynamic figurative work and textured compositions that aim to resonate deeply with the viewer.
His unwavering artistic focus lies in painting subjects that are personally challenging and intriguing, ensuring that every piece is an authentic expression of passion.
Recent Work and Focus
In recent years, Cox has concentrated on a powerful series investigating themes of identity and the subjective nature of memory. This involves reimagining old family photographs and personal mementos, translating them through expressive brushwork onto large-scale, immersive canvases. These evocative pieces transform personal history into universal narratives, celebrating nostalgia while prompting viewers to reflect on their own connections to heritage and the fluidity of recollection.
Cox's commitment to creating deep-dive series allows him to masterfully explore each subject before expanding into new creative territories. Through exhibitions, he consistently showcases his ability to captivate audiences with emotive storytelling and accomplished technique. Ultimately, Paul Cox invites the viewer on a journey of introspection, encouraging an exploration of the profound, interconnected nature of the past, the present, and the future.
Art Prizes
2024
Winner, Kyneton Agricultural Society Inc. (Spring Show) – Oil Painting
Winner, Kyneton Agricultural Society Inc. (Spring Show) – Charcoal Drawing
Highly Commended, Kyneton Daffodil & Arts Festival
Highly Commended, Kyneton Agricultural Society Inc. (Spring Show) – Oil Painting
Highly Commended, Kyneton Daffodil Festival – Charcoal Drawing
Highly Commended, Kyneton Agricultural Society Inc. (Spring Show) – Charcoal Drawing
2018
Winner, Kyneton Agricultural Society Inc. (Spring Show) – Best Exhibit
Winner, Kyneton Agricultural Society Inc. (Spring Show) – First Prize Amazing Painting Any Media
Winner, Kyneton Agricultural Society Inc. (Spring Show) – First Prize Acrylic Painting
Winner, Kyneton Agricultural Society Inc. (Spring Show) – Aub Gibson Best Original Painting
Winner, Kyneton Agricultural Society Inc. (Spring Show) – First Prize Oil Painting
2017
Winner, Kyneton Agricultural Society Inc. (Spring Show) – First Prize Amazing Painting Any Media
Exhibitions
2025
Wesley Hill-Grist Bakery
2024
Kyneton Agricultural Society Inc. (Spring Show)
Kyneton Daffodil & Arts Festival
2018
Kyneton Agricultural Society Inc. (Spring Show)
2017
Kyneton Agricultural Society Inc. (Spring Show)
Let's Create a Timeless Piece.
Do you have a person or memory you wish to immortalize on canvas?
It all starts with a simple thought. Whether it's a portrait of a beloved family member, a special way to memorialize a life, or capturing the essence of a loved one from a faded photograph, I can bring your vision to life.
Email me at info@pjcoxart.com and tell me briefly what you'd like to achieve. Together, we can create something truly special.
Have a question or would like to discuss a possible commission?
info@pjcoxart.com
+61 0408 638 516
35 Barton Street, Kyneton
Victoria, Australia 3444