The art of two: Creating together and apart

Some creative partnerships are carefully planned; others happen because the universe insists on it. Husband and wife duo Faatimah Mohamed-Luke and Al Luke never intended to collaborate, but when the right project came along, they found a rhythm that made their work even stronger.

Building an unexpected partnership

“We were determined never to work together,” they admit. Their relationship came first, and they feared the strain of blending creative and personal lives. But when a client insisted on hiring both of them for the same project, they couldn’t say no. “The project was so special that we couldn’t turn it down,” they recall. With Al working in graphic design and Faatimah in fashion, their skill sets and contacts differ but complement each other – an advantage that has proved invaluable. “Our experience in running design studios made handling admin and logistics easier, allowing us to focus on what really matters – the art,” the couple explains.

Different voices, one cohesive vision

Their artistic approaches could not be more different. “Faatimah’s work is structured and calculated, while mine is organic and intuitive,” says Al. Their natural inclination is to work separately, with little overlap. And yet, when they do collaborate, their styles coexist in an unexpected but balanced way. What makes it work? “An honest eye and an agreement to always put out the best possible work,” says Faatimah. Growth and progress take priority over ego, making feedback a space for improvement rather than critique.

Navigating challenges with clarity

“We know that feedback between us always comes from a place of best intentions,” Al explains. If something isn’t working, they don’t take it personally. Instead, they refine it together. The more difficult part is managing the business side – admin, deadlines, payments. “At first, I handle the admin,” says Faatimah. “But if things descend into madness, Al steps in as the firm contact point.”

A breakthrough in a bus shelter

One of their most significant collaborations came when they were commissioned to create immersive art installations inside bus shelters in Johannesburg. Originally commissioned for four pieces, they ended up creating eight – while balancing the logistics of working in a different city, in the middle of winter, during Ramadan, and while being filmed. “It was the first time both our works existed on the same ‘canvas,’” says Faatimah. “The space was impactful, and more importantly, loved by the public.” The experience proved that their combined approach was greater than the sum of its parts.

Putting the essentials first

For Faatimah and Al, creative trust is built over time, but the foundation is always kindness. “It’s easier for someone to listen and accept a perspective when it’s phrased in a way that is kind and helpful,” says Al. Faatimah adds that setting clear boundaries from the start is crucial. “Have a set of ground rules – written down. These should include boundaries, individual tasks, cost splitting, and shared responsibilities,” she advises. Clarity removes the guesswork, making space for true collaboration.

Finding the right collaborator

Al’s advice for creatives seeking a collaborator? Start with self-awareness. “Write down what you’re good at and what you struggle with. Ask those who know you well to weigh in. Often, we don’t recognise our own strengths and weaknesses.” Faatimah believes that mutual appreciation is key. “All parties must appreciate and understand each other’s work. That initial appreciation fosters trust and a willingness to push boundaries together.”

Making each other better

But they also offer a reality check. “Collaborating with a loved one is a huge undertaking. We’ve been married for 20 years, and it’s been a journey to reach this nourishing space,” they share. “If collaboration isn’t built on admiration and trust, it’s better to work alone until you find the right person.”