Vertical Gallery is very proud to present 'ALLIANCE,' a unique collaborative exhibit connecting established and emerging artists from across the planet. ‘ALLIANCE,’ which runs Feb. 7- Mar. 1, pairs seven Chicago-area artists with kindred creative spirits from elsewhere in the U.S. and abroad. 

The artist matchups are: Blake Jones + Yeka Haski; Laura Catherwood + Collin van der Sluijs; Oscar Joyo + JJ Zamoranos; Adam Augustyn + Hendra HeHe; E. Lee + OakOak; Pizza in the Rain + Max Seckel; Bird Milk + ZROPRO

Each duo joins forces on a 24” x 30” canvas. All 14 artists in the show also contribute three 12” x 12” solo pieces. 

‘ALLIANCE’ features some artists making their Vertical debut, including Finland-born/ Tokyo-based Haski, creator and lead designer of the animated series ‘Sonya from Toastville,’ whom Chicago’s Jones met while exhibiting in Japan. 

“Collaborations are successful when neither artist feels inhibited by the other. At the same time, both artists have to allow the other the space to expand, and to mix the flavors together,” Jones says. “The most successful collaborations are planned out. You send sketch after sketch after sketch, and go back and forth, and eventually, you land in the middle.” 

ALLIANCE

February 7 - March 1, 2025

Opening reception: Fri Feb 7th, 5:00-8:00pm

Vertical Gallery, 2006 W Chicago Ave #1R

Image: Blake Jones + Yeka Haski Collaboration