Collaborative by Tina Alberni & Mikel Frank
14 - 12x12 panels

This collaborative project emerged from the shared aspiration of two artists with distinct artistic approaches, uniting their creative visions to engage in a visual dialogue. There was no commentary agenda except to just be in the moment and respond. Over the course of several months, we each responded on the same piece. One of us would start and the other would complete it.

Mikel Frank brings a non-objective approach to the forefront, primarily concentrating on elements like color, shape, form, and texture. In the tradition of the Dada movement, he makes use of random fragments found in discarded materials. The process he develops is an improvisational response setting up a dialogue with the piece where he takes his cues from how the picture plane develops, improvising on the accident.

Tina Alberni also uses discarded and random materials but places emphasis on intrinsic qualities. This approach leans towards automatism, allowing her expressive imagination to flow freely. This enables her to access and convey inner thoughts and emotions in a raw, unfiltered manner, with the subconscious taking the reins. The result is an improvisational response for both artists.

The conversation that results is both visually exciting and provocative.