Untitled – Scott Ingram + Martina

20 × 16 inches | Wrapped canvas
Tempera, spray paint, acrylic and graphite on canvas

Bright orange and yellow brushstrokes meet bold blue circles, graphic symbols and an unexpected skull-and-crossbones in this spirited collaboration between artist Scott Ingram and Martina, the alpha female of Primate Rescue Center’s chimpanzee troop.

Ingram’s carefully placed additions bring a little mischief to Martina’s sweeping colors, creating a composition that feels part abstract painting, part visual puzzle. Fellow chimpanzee Rodney also contributed to the original painting.

Based in Atlanta, Ingram explores color, geometry and everyday materials through painting, sculpture and other media. A recipient of the Museum of Contemporary Art of Georgia’s Working Artist Prize, his work is held in the collections of MOCA GA and the High Museum of Art.

Martina has a commanding presence of her own. Confident and independent, she’s a fitting collaborator for a painting that isn’t afraid to make a statement.

About the artwork: The first photo shows the completed collaboration being auctioned. The second shows the original primate painting before Ingram added his contributions. Both images depict the same canvas; only the completed artwork is included.