While collectors and artists often only get involved in financial transactions, in some instances, it can lead to a friendship between the two parties, writes Ted Loos for The New York Times.

Adam Pendleton, a New York-based multidisciplinary maker best known for his abstract black-and-white paintings that deal with race and history, can attest to this.

Through his work, Pendleton has developed a good friendship with Philadelphia collectors Michael Forman and Jennifer Rice, founders of the Forman Arts Initiative.

They are among the biggest collectors of his work.

“Their generosity toward me has been immense — not just collecting but also supporting my initiatives, like the Nina Simone house,” Pendleton said.

In addition to their support and generosity, Pendleton is also appreciative of their sense of boundaries and not being too demanding of him.

Forman characterizes his relationship with Pendleton as somewhere in between professionals and buddies.

The support goes both ways, as Pendleton is currently advising Forman and Rice on a planned space for the Forman Arts Initiative that would host community programming and show some of their collection.

“Part of the job for us is getting to know the artists,” said Forman. “The art world is small, and you’re going to run into people.”

Read more about how artists and collectors can build bonds at The New York Times.

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