Left , Lichtenstein and Adams Keith Haring print , made in collaboration with acclaimed photographer Janette Beckman . Top right and bottom right , Lichtenstein and Adams CARWASH 1982 , DEF JAM RECORDINGS ( Black Border ), and RUN DMC prints , made in collaboration with Beckman and influential photojournalist Martha Cooper .
Adams describes the moment when he first walked into Lichtenstein ’ s studio as “ transformative .” He recognized his chance to work with a master of the craft . Lichtenstein was equally enthusiastic about the collaboration : “ During our initial discussions about what we could achieve with silkscreen printing , we came to a simple answer : We could do anything we wanted .” They subsequently embarked on what would become the American Flag series in 2016 . This project was characterized by a fluid exploration of various interpretations of the flag . Adams brought fresh insight and creativity to the process , which explored the boundaries of what Lichtenstein could achieve with silkscreen printing .
Adams found ample fulfillment in witnessing Lichtenstein ' s artistic expertise take shape in real time at the studio . " There were so many aspects of the way Gary worked in the studio that fascinated me ," says Adams . " The sheer physicality of silkscreen printing was a revelation to me . I found myself drawn to it as an observer ." Lichtenstein describes the collaborative process as a “ dialogue .” Ideas
were exchanged freely ; creativity flowed unhindered . " We could say anything to each other ," adds Adams . " We embraced experimentation , exploring new techniques and approaches to our artwork without limitations ."
Although Adams and Lichtenstein approached the project from different points of cultural reference — such as Adams ’ deep ties to the Hip-Hop movement and Lichtenstein ’ s forays into the Rock scene — they tapped into a universal spirit of artistic freedom . “ Our years of experience in our own artistic worlds helped us work togeth-
72 // BERKSHIRE MAGAZINE May / June 2024