A major early abstract painting, Shift (1964) highlights the continuity between Cohen’s initial painterly practice and his later work with computational systems. By the mid-1960s, Cohen’s attention turned to a more structured, systematic approach to painting, with works from this time resembling diagrams, maps or topographical systems, anticipating Cohen’s growing interest in digital structures, years before he began programming computers.

The map-like composition evokes an aerial perspective, as disparate elements echo and respond to one another across the surface. Its careful organisation demonstrates Cohen’s emerging commitment to rule-based image construction.