Captivating Canvases and Melodic Echoes: Joe Coco’s, “Paterson Great Falls Series”

Joe Coco, Centenary’s beloved adjunct professor of art, invites viewers to embark on a mesmerizing journey into the heart of New Jersey’s historic treasure, the Paterson Great Falls, through his captivating “Paterson Great Falls Series.” This enthralling exhibition is on display until the end of February at the Taylor Memorial Library.

Four monumental canvases, each measuring six by four feet, serve as windows into the falls’ enchantment, capturing the ever-changing dance of seasons and the interplay of sunlight and moonlight. Coco, a man of many hats—artistry, music, and academia—dared to dream larger than any visionary since the 1800s.

“I wanted these (the paintings) to be bigger than anything that had ever been done,” Coco said, with a twinkle in his eye. 

Having resided in vibrant Passaic County since childhood, Coco’s inspired soul resonates with the falls’ historical significance—from its genesis as the birthplace of the Leni Lenape tribe to its role as the rhythmic heartbeat of American industry.

“Power was harnessed from the falls in many different ways,” Coco said, as if divulging secrets of the rushing waters.

Though Coco doesn’t stop at sight; he invites spectators to hear the falls’ flowing melody through his recorded instrumental music, weaving seamlessly into his cinematic creations, “Sound Image” and “Falls River.”

The exhibition also includes Coco’s striking Ancestral Falls Series, where Leni Lenape mythology springs to life in smaller paintings.

“With these, I wanted to capture the essence of being fully formed as we are born,” Coco said, his passion evident. “I want to convey that divine intelligence that we innately have within all of us. It’s beautiful.”

Coco envisions both his grand and intimate masterpieces finding a permanent home at the National Parks Great Falls Visitor Center, an homage to Paterson’s rich legacy.

“The mind is set up to project what you want,” Coco said, “But, first, you must supplicate yourself to your environment.”

One of the many astounding paintings in Joe Coco’s, “Paterson Great Falls Series.” (Photo by Eve Foote)