What does Cog Stand For?  the Collective of Geniuses.
Why do you call yourselves a collective?  “A collective is a group of people who share or are motivated by at least one common issue or interest, or work together on a specific project(s) to achieve a common objective... Collectives differ from cooperatives in that they are not necessarily focused upon an economic benefit . (but can do that as well).” http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Collective

We have conversations about structure and how to focus on a population that is mostly trans, queer and minorities and if we can still say that we are egalitarian.  We work together to complete projects that align with our goals. We help each other.

Are you a cooperative? No, we are not currently a cooperative because we aren’t focusing on making money as a business. Instead,  as a friend once said, we are doing what we are passionate about, helping artists (including ourselves) earn a decent living by working together. We also write grants to help support what we do, thus we cannot form as a cooperative. We are currently a fiscally sponsored non-profit 501c3. We have a Board of Directors who are empowered members of the Portland Trans, Queer and Minority Artist community. Everyone on the board is at least partially self-employed.

Why do you call yourselves Geniuses? Are you egotistical or something? Nope, no egotistical megalomaniacs here, despite the narcissistic epidemic in our culture today...  it’s a joke people, a joke. A joke about what Genius means and what it means to be a genius , today, in society. Check List Please`: White, European, Heterosexual, oh and of course Male... This doesn’t describe the cog artist very well. Despite this lack of White-European-Heterosexual-Males we DO have a line up of five-star professional artists who uphold our standards for creating quality innovative work. Eat that Patriarchy!

So what does cog DO?  We have a performance art program and a visual arts program and a business and furthering education program. Our performance program produce original innovative theatre and performances (mostly circus and puppet) and hold classes and workshops. Our Visual artist program host first Friday art walk openings, tables at craft fairs with goods made by the collective as well as holds classes and such. The visual arts committee is also responsible for the design and production of this brochure and our fine calendar. We also have ART and other opportunities for the ever fun business side of being an artist.

Great! How do I get involved? You can come to our events and performances, buy our arts and crafts, donate your time and/or money, and/or sign up for a class! Join our listserve. Tell a friend. be empowered!

What do all these words mean? Check out our terminology page by clicking here!