CoJo is an amalgamation of our son and mother team.              

 

Co represents Cole, and Jo (aka Jo-e) is me, Mom. Our team began as an avenue to express the pain of Cole's struggle with mental illness and the affect it has had on the whole family. We released our struggles by focusing outside of our heads into micro movements on canvas.  

 

Cole's graduate program thesis in digital design, at the University of Oregon, revolved around the idea that art can convey profound messages and emotions through minimal lines. So, I paint the backgrounds while Cole draws the images. Then I infuse color and messiness into Cole's simplicity. 

 

Our art is a collaboration of family, friendship and creativity. What we truly value is an avenue of expression for our personal struggles, detachment from the result, and mutual respect and support for each other's visions. Essentially, it's a vibrant journey towards healing.

 

The name of our company, Family Art Ikigai, draws inspiration from the Japanese concept of "Ikigai," meaning value, purpose, mission, and reason for being. 

 

Our family art co-op provides a connection within the family, a means of expression, a sense of community, an outlet for service to others, and nourishment for the soul. 

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Thank you for taking a moment to step into our colorful little world.

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🎨 Cole and Jo