Global Art Project: International Mixed-Media Collaborative Collective

Global Art Project (GAP) is a membership-based international collaborative collective dedicated to the practice of mixed-media art and creative exchange. Founded by artist and curator Carl Heyward, the project has its roots in web-based collaborative activities that began in 2012, such as the KNEE jerk Fragmentation Project. Today, Global Art Project comprises approximately 78 working artists operating across 18 different countries, including the United States, Italy, Mexico, and Senegal. The collective’s artistic philosophy is deeply influenced by movements such as Fluxus, Dada, and Cobra, emphasizing the importance of trust, experimentation, and non-attachment to results. Global Art Project members engage in a unique process involving 'frags'—fragments of canvas, paper, and found objects—which are passed between artists to create layered, collaborative works that communicate beyond the barriers of language and culture. This process-focused practice often results in highly expressive pieces that explore themes of fragmentation and global connectivity. Beyond digital collaboration, Global Art Project has organized numerous face-to-face workshops and exhibitions in international locations such as Venice, Mazatlán, and San Francisco. These studio experiences allow artists to interact with local communities while maintaining a spirit of intuitive, improvisational creativity. Through its ongoing exhibitions and educational programs, Global Art Project continues to expand the boundaries of contemporary mixed-media art, fostering a global network of artists who share a commitment to collective expression and the collaborative future.