Now, far be it from me to tell you what is, or isn't, beautiful, especially when it comes to art. It's not who you know, it's quite simply what you like. We like Samm Cohen's artwork. Samm's work reminds me of the phrase, "do it with feeling." She uses real color, deep and vivid, and she expresses herself almost literally with her face. Lips, or eyes, or whole visages dominate her canvases and photographs, and her work is very emotional, and not always happy. But then, I don't know anyone who is happy all of the time.

And yet, there is a certain cohesion to her work when placed end to end. Each piece has its own set of expressions and feelings, and instead of trying to drown each other out, they take turns being seen and felt. Samm's work also includes jewelry, ranging from slightly conservative, yet expressive, brightly colored stones, to more aggressively visual pieces, again incorporating parts of the face. Like the difference between raising your hand to speak, and standing up and screaming, but still making the same point.

Some people are discomforted and disturbed by Samm's work. Given the times we live in, I'm not surprised. People are very afraid of their feelings, and don't like to be reminded that they exist. Her work jolts these people, and undermines a lifetime of "boys don't cry" and "frowning causes wrinkles." Feelings are natural, and like most natural things, not always easily controlled. Samm's work attracts people who feel strong emotions on a regular basis, and believe expressing yourself, whether in a calm, controlled manner (good for certain situations) or at the top of their lungs (perfectly acceptable for other occasions) is perfectly normal and healthy.