Alkali Arts brings people together through participatory art, sculptural installations, and conversations that invite a different perspective.

Founded by Calgary multidisciplinary artist Michelle Atkinson, the studio connects an artist’s curiosity with the practical demands of producing an event. The result is distinctive artwork people can encounter, contribute to, and remember.

Michelle’s motivation is simple: to ignite curiosity and creativity in others, especially people who think they don’t have it.

Through her art practice, she explores how we interpret information, respond to materials, and see the same thing differently. In Formation brings that exploration into a shared experience, giving participants the freedom to experiment and discover possibilities together.

Her signature abstract shapes provide the starting point. The people in the room help determine what happens next.

Before becoming a full-time artist, Michelle spent more than 20 years in graphic design and visual communication. She understands audiences, stakeholders, budgets, timelines, and the care required to bring an idea into the world.

Her work spans public art, corporate commissions, exhibitions, and participatory experiences. She leads the creative direction of every Alkali project, working with fabricators and specialist collaborators as needed.

That combination brings a distinctive artistic voice to work that also needs to function within a real event.

In Formation uses reusable sculptural components that move between events, taking on new configurations with different people.

This rental approach supports a business built around repeated use and shared experiences. Selected commissions also draw on Michelle’s ongoing exploration of reclaimed materials.

Explore the In Formation formats or get in touch to discuss your event.