During the COVID-19 pandemic, artist Lauren Cohen found herself grappling with feelings of loneliness and isolation, and in response, she began developing a fictional character, The Fisherman. To fully immerse herself in this character's world, she adopted a unique and creative approach, donning the attire of her father, brother, and great uncle, and documented herself having virtual dates with the imaginary man.

 

Cohen was awarded a residency at MacDowell in the winter of 2023. Her time spent there was essential in producing this film, which features over three hundred ceramic pieces and several oil paintings, all of which serve as integral components of the feature. Cohen’s sculptural work is intended to be displayed alongside the film.

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The Fisherman premiered in the Department of Film at The Museum of Modern Art on May 24th, 2023.