Patrick Douglass Cox, renowned for the remarkable precision and detail in his work, has established a reputation as a high realist. His approach to realism suggests literal representation, yet has a markedly interpretive quality. Working from a foundational concept, Cox does not hesitate to manipulate the elements of composition until only the essential details, shaped to his purpose, remain. When portraying human subjects, he looks not for superficial charm or glamour, but rather for depth and uniqueness of character. His paintings capture and intensify fleeting moments, stripping away the noise of everyday life leaving only the still essence of something humanly significant. Through his unique lens, Cox’s ability to find the extraordinary in an ordinary scene makes his paintings compelling.

Cox attended the Alberta College of Art in Calgary, and graduated in 1976 with a degree in Visual Communications. Cox pursued further study at Illustrators Workshop in New York before co-founding a successful illustration and design studio. In 1982 he transitioned to painting full-time. His paintings are found in numerous Canadian collections including the House of Commons in Ottawa, the Vancouver Art Gallery, and the Glenbow Museum.