Ronald Cooper

"Ronald Cooper (1932- ) and his wife Jessie started making art after a serious automobile accident left him disabled. He took up whittling in the Kentucky mountain craft style and Jessie decided to try sculpture. Cooper describes the work they do as a gift from God.
Biblical scenes are common in their work. A frequent them is the conflict between good and evil. Ronald’s ideas sometime come from his nightmares. They both use found materials and print messages on the work.
Cooper sees his artwork as a way to get a message out to the world at large. His work can also reflect his sense of humor. He says, ""People are always disappointed when they meet me. They expect me to be a little crazy when they’ve seen my work.""
Cooper’s work is in the collection of the American Visionary Art Museum and Morehead State University. In 1998, the Cooper’s received the Appalachian Treasure Award to salute their contribution to the artistic tradition of the region."
[Currently being updated -- Museum Staff]