Cole Sternberg layers fields of color to create abstract paintings with social and political connotations, most notably referencing the proliferation of censorship across society. Sternberg inscribes text on canvas before painting over the words with several gestural layers, seeking to transform and eviscerate the content. He also creates subtle installation, photography, collage, and video works whose content has focused on various issues, from human rights issues and law to the environment and media. “The thing that motivates me is just whatever is in my head that’s bothering me,” the Los Angeles-based artist has said. “I want to change that into something that is also somewhat beautiful and interesting.”