Philadelphia Artist Andromeda Cook Builds Basquiat-Inspired Career

Contemporary visual artist creates paintings, public art, and community programs focused on self-expression, healing, and purpose.

Mar. 21, 2026 at 5:48am

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Andromeda Cook is a Philadelphia-based contemporary visual artist and the creator of Andromeda Cook Studio. Her Basquiat-inspired style explores themes of self-expression, healing, and purpose, incorporating subtle references to the Andromeda constellation. As a resident artist at October Art Gallery, Cook has built a strong presence through exhibitions, public art, and collaborative work, with features in outlets like Fox News and the Showtime series The Chi. Her original paintings are part of the Penn Medicine collection, and her most recognized work, "Hollywood Dreams," continues to resonate as her most collected print.

Why it matters

Cook's work and community-focused approach highlight the vibrant contemporary art scene in Philadelphia, where she has built a career centered on using art as a tool for self-expression, healing, and connection. Her Basquiat-inspired style and focus on accessibility through programs, partnerships, and digital content make her a notable figure in the city's thriving arts community.

The details

In addition to her studio work, Cook creates corporate and community painting experiences, teaches jewelry making, and has built a digital audience of over 31,000 on TikTok where she shares Bible stories paired with soulful music. She has also contributed to the "Our Market" project through Mural Arts Philadelphia, assisted on a mural with Martha Rich, and helped bring artwork to the Italian Market through painted awnings. Before focusing on her independent practice, Cook spent years teaching visual art and writing literacy to elementary students in the Philadelphia School District, an experience that continues to influence her work today through educational programs.

  • Cook was raised in South Philadelphia near 11th and Carpenter streets.
  • She has been a resident artist at October Art Gallery in Philadelphia.
  • Her original paintings "Self Love" and "Flower of Life" are part of the Penn Medicine collection through CFEVA and remain on display.
  • Her most recognized work, "Hollywood Dreams," continues to be her most collected print, with the original on display at October Art Gallery.
  • Her 10K Collection, featuring the 48-by-48-inch piece "Meta," was showcased during the Manayunk Arts Festival at Look Listen Art Gallery.

The players

Andromeda Cook

A Philadelphia-based contemporary visual artist and the creator of Andromeda Cook Studio, known for her Basquiat-inspired style that explores themes of self-expression, healing, and purpose.

October Art Gallery

A gallery in Philadelphia where Andromeda Cook has been a resident artist, building a strong presence through exhibitions, public art, and collaborative work.

Penn Medicine

The healthcare system that has acquired two of Andromeda Cook's original paintings, "Self Love" and "Flower of Life," which are on display as part of their art collection.

Mural Arts Philadelphia

The organization that Andromeda Cook has collaborated with on the "Our Market" project, contributing to a mural in the Italian Market neighborhood.

Martha Rich

An artist that Andromeda Cook worked with on a mural project through Mural Arts Philadelphia.

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The takeaway

Andromeda Cook's Basquiat-inspired art and community-focused approach have made her a notable figure in Philadelphia's thriving contemporary art scene. Her work and programs centered on self-expression, healing, and connection highlight the power of art to inspire and bring people together, especially in a city with a rich cultural heritage.