The Prototype series by Anna Beller, presented by GAZELL.iO during the artist's Residency for June 2024, is a captivating exploration of the synergy between intuitive human artistry and digitally generated systems. Comprising Prototype 001, 002, and 003, this series bridges the gap between traditional painting techniques and digital methodologies, creating a dialogue between control and spontaneity, structure and fluidity.

Prototype 001 marks the beginning of this journey, blending soak-stain painting on raw canvas with pen-plotted digital grids. This piece juxtaposes organic, blurred contours with precise horizontal lines, highlighting the coexistence of digital and physical elements. It embodies a nuanced interplay between these realms, exploring themes of transparency, layering, and minimalism.

Prototype 002 continues this exploration, focusing on geometric, carpet-like designs and colour field paintings. The artwork begins with plotted marks indicating where to tape and cover sections before spray painting. This structured framework allows for spontaneous choices in colour scheme and density, merging digital precision with a natural, tactile character. The piece emphasises the interplay between control and artistic intuition, resulting in a harmonious blend of technology and traditional artistry.

Prototype 003 builds on its predecessors by introducing central dots on horizontal lines to guide the placement of stencils for spray painting circles. In the digital work, overlapping red transparent circles create dense, merged areas while black fine dots remain visible, underscoring the system's consistency. The physical artwork, however, embraces a playful, experimental approach, allowing for imperfections and creative freedom. This iteration highlights the relationship between digital precision and the human touch, pushing the boundaries of both mediums.

Overall, the Prototype series showcases the potential of merging digital and physical elements, underscoring the enduring relevance of handmade art in an increasingly virtual world. Each iteration presents a new opportunity for creative expression, continuously evolving and expanding the dialogue between art and technology.