David Coggins is a Minneapolis artist, writer, and set designer. Last weekend I attended an art opening at his very hip studio in Northeast Minneapolis.  I could have spent the evening exploring his space but we were there for the featured work of artist Robert Carolina and his recently published Daybooks.

Created over a ten-year period (2000-2009), Robert Carolina’s eight Daybooks total 1,700 pages and contain 1,000 collages.I felt a kindred spirit with this artist, a fellow storyteller using found objects, text and imagery.  They were humorous, sad, thought provoking and above all they kept me wanting more.  The entire event was magically staged in a setting reminiscent of Paris.  Catered by Grand Bakery, every bite was as interesting and tasteful as the art.

David Coggins Studio in the Grainbelt Brewery

A Better Radish (page from The Green Daybook, 8 x 6)

Daybooks Boxed Set

Available individually and as a boxed set. The Daybooks were edited by David Coggins and are available through Cobalt Press.  To see more examples of either artists work visit Cobalt Press.

David Coggins set design --The Deception by Pierre Marivau 2007 Coproduction Theatre de la Jeune Lune and La Jolla Playhouse

Gregg’s equipment arrived this week.  We are close to having phase one complete with a functioning shop, heat and a working bathroom! It was a perfect Fall day to have friends out for grilling burgers, a champagne toast and s’mores to complete the spectacular day.