Collector Spotlight: Alisha Rajani
Vertical Gallery’s debut Collector Spotlight profiles Alisha Rajani (IG: @alisharajani), a Chicago native and owner of Frame Chicago. Alisha seamlessly blends her passion for art with Frame Chicago’s mission, helping tell the story of the city’s dynamic art scene by ensuring that collectors not only display their pieces but also preserve and elevate them with bold, design-forward framing solutions.
Vertical Gallery: Why do you collect art?
Alisha Rajani: Art has the power to capture emotions, stories and moments in time that words alone cannot express. It enriches my daily life, and each piece tells a unique story that adds depth to my surroundings.
Whose art do you collect?
My collection primarily focuses on Chicago artists, as I’m passionate about supporting and showcasing the incredible talent within this city. However, Vertical Gallery has broadened my perspective, introducing me to a variety of talented artists from around the world. Over the years, I've collected works from artists including Sentrock, Flog, 2CHOEY, Delisha, lefty OUT there, Mia Lee and Noelle Berexa.
What is the first piece you acquired from Vertical Gallery?
The first piece I acquired from Vertical Gallery was by Australian artist Ben Frost. It was a piece of Bambi on a contraceptives package.
Whose work do you hope to add to your collection in the coming months?
I’m always on the lookout for new artists to support. I’d love to continue discovering both local Chicago talent and international artists that reflect diverse perspectives and creative innovation. A few artists I've got my eye on include Liz Flores, Jess Owens-Young and Morgan Nicolette Marshall.
What's your advice for new and aspiring collectors?
Collect what speaks to you personally. Art is about connection, and you’ll know when a piece resonates with you. Take your time, do your research and don’t feel pressured to follow trends. The more you learn and the more you immerse yourself in the art community, the more fulfilling the process becomes.