As part of our summer-long mural exhibit, Artisans at The Arboretum, The Dawes Arboretum is proud to showcase the work of nine talented artists who have brought their creativity to our grounds. In this Meet the Artist series, we’re highlighting the people behind the paint—learning more about their inspiration, process, and what their murals mean to them. Today, we’re excited to introduce you to Arris' J. "Sir'ra" Cohen, whose mural Root Memory can be found in the Learning Garden.
1. Can you tell us a bit about yourself and your background as an artist?
My name is Sir’ra, also known as Arris J. Cohen. I’m a visual artist, muralist, and art educator based in Columbus, Ohio. My practice blends fine art techniques with storytelling, often exploring themes of identity, community, Afrofuturism, and the African Diaspora. I’ve worked on murals across Ohio and exhibited work nationally, always striving to create art that sparks conversation and connection. In addition to painting, I’m passionate about teaching and mentoring young artists to help them find their own creative voice.
2. How would you describe your artistic style or the themes you explore in your work?
My style is a fusion of realism, surrealism, and vibrant color narratives. I’m deeply inspired by the idea of Afrosurrealism—blending everyday scenes with elements of the extraordinary to reveal deeper truths about identity, culture, and our place in the world. Many of my works incorporate layered imagery, symbolism, and vivid color palettes that draw viewers in and encourage reflection. Whether I’m painting portraits, landscapes, or abstract elements, storytelling is always at the heart of my work.
3. What inspired your mural for Artisans at The Arboretum?
For this project, I wanted to honor the history, people, and spirit of The Dawes Arboretum. One of the panels originally began as the work of artist Curtis Goldstein, and I was commissioned to complete it, ensuring it remained faithful to his vision while bringing my own artistic voice into the piece. Both murals reflect a deep respect for the landscape and the individuals who have shaped the Arboretum’s legacy. I was inspired by archival photos, stories of the Dawes family, and the natural beauty that surrounds the site.
4. Did the location or landscape of The Dawes Arboretum influence your piece in any way?
Absolutely. The Arboretum itself is a living canvas. It’s full of light, color, and history. Walking the grounds, I was struck by how the environment changes throughout the day, the seasons, and even as you turn a corner. I wanted the murals to echo that sense of discovery and connection to nature. The greens and blues, in particular, were inspired by the vivid foliage and expansive skies. The landscape guided both the palette and the composition, weaving nature into the narrative.
5. Can you walk us through your creative process from concept to completion?
My process begins with research, gathering historical images, archival materials, and visiting the site. I sketch thumbnails and explore color palettes digitally or on paper, thinking about how imagery can overlap and transition. For these murals, I worked both freehand and with projection to block out large forms. I used brushes and spray paint to build layers of color, texture, and detail. Each mural went through multiple stages of layering, adjusting values and color harmony to create depth and cohesion. Completing Curtis Goldstein’s unfinished mural was unique. I spent time studying his technique and color approach to maintain visual continuity. Balancing respect for his original vision with my own style was both a challenge and an honor.
6. What was the most rewarding or challenging part of working on this project?
The most rewarding part was seeing the murals installed and how they integrated into the natural surroundings. Art in a setting like The Dawes Arboretum feels alive.The biggest challenge was completing a mural that was started by another artist. Interpreting someone else’s vision and technique while adding my own touch required careful study and respect. It pushed me technically and creatively and taught me a lot about collaboration, even indirectly.
7. What do you hope visitors take away from seeing your mural?
I hope visitors feel a sense of connection to The Arboretum’s history and to the natural world around them. I want the murals to spark curiosity, reflection, and perhaps inspire people to look deeper into the stories that shape the places we love. Art in public spaces has the power to transform how we experience our environment, and I hope these pieces contribute to that sense of wonder and belonging.
8. Where can people see more of your work or connect with you online?
People can find me on Instagram at @sir_ra_, where I share works-in-progress, finished pieces, and updates on exhibitions and mural projects. My website is www.arriscreates.art. I always welcome conversations about art and community, so feel free to reach out!
We’re grateful to Sir'ra for sharing his time and talent with our Arboretum community. Be sure to see his artwork along the South Loop of the auto tour during your next visit—and experience how art, nature and history come together in this one-of-a-kind exhibit. Artisans at The Arboretum runs through September 20.