The Art of Collaboration: A Conversation with DaveandJenn

We recently had the opportunity to sit down with Calgary based artistic duo DaveandJenn to discuss their creative process, inspirations, and the unique experience of working together as both partners and collaborators. Their work is rich with intricate layers, storytelling elements, and a shared curiosity about history, science, and human experience. In our conversation, they chatted about how they bring their visions to life, navigate creative differences, and what it truly means to create as a team. 

Finding a Concept: A Shared Vision 

When it comes to selecting a concept, DaveandJenn approach it with an intuitive back-and-forth process. “We each have our own personal leanings, but we tend to gravitate towards similar subjects or interests,” they explain. “Convincing each other to follow some initial impulse is easy. But we tend to look at a thing from very different viewpoints, and the game has always been not trying to work against that. After that, it’s like passing a ball back and forth.” 

Their work is a continuous exchange, where ideas morph and develop through conversation and shared enthusiasm. 

Inspiration: A Love for History, Science, and Human Folly 

Inspiration is fluid for DaveandJenn. It shifts over time, influenced by their personal interests and external interests. “We’re both nerds in our own right,” they admit. “We’re always drawn to history, science, and human folly. How the little life fits into the bigger picture is a question the two of us are often working on.” 

A Unified Creative Voice 

Collaboration has been at the core of their practice since art school. “We weren’t interested in having solo practices; it’s always been about making work as DaveandJenn.” Over the years, their artistic voice has naturally evolved into a singular entity. 

The Rewards and Challenges of Creating as a Couple 

For DaveandJenn, working together as both partners and artists has its rewards. “Always having someone who understands the nutty impulses or niche obsessions is great,” they share. “And when one of us is feeling a bit overdone or mired, the other one is there to steady the boat.” 

Of course, creative differences do arise, but they’ve developed a simple yet effective approach: “We each have veto power, but with great power comes great responsibility.” 

Art as a Reflection of Relationship 

After twenty years of living and working together, their artistic practice and daily life have become intertwined. “Our relationship probably does evolve through our art, but ‘how’ would be hard to answer,” they reflect. “At this point, our artistic practice and our daily life feel like one and the same.” 

DaveandJenn’s work is a testament to the power of collaboration—how two unique perspectives can merge into a cohesive, ever-evolving creative force. Their journey proves that art, like relationships, is a continuous dialogue—one that thrives on curiosity, trust, and a shared vision. 

See Their Work at the AGA 

Don't miss the opportunity to experience DaveandJenn’s stunning piece A Forest Song, currently on display at the Art Gallery of Alberta as part of A Look Within: The Vision of Alberta's Collectors exhibition. The exhibition runs until February 17, get your tickets now and immerse yourself in their captivating world. Plan your visit now!