Carol Hartman

The art process intrigues me more than the resulting artifact. Viewer interaction is a vital part of that process. Each project deals with knowledge, access and/or barriers to knowledge (self-made barriers, political carriers, language barriers, racial barriers, etc.), and the growth of society as a result of overcoming those barriers and sharing and processing that knowledge.

Although Intaglio Printing and Drawing have been of great interest to me, since 1983 I have been constructing interactive installations involving viewer participation. Computer-generated images are projected onto large walls. While moving about within the environment, viewers choose images via infra-red movement detectors connected directly to slide projectors. Instant replays on multiple video monitors reveal viewer interaction choices, thereby creating an awareness of oneÕs position within the given space and content. Supporting video on additional monitors documents alternative choices and written words on walls create further contemplation. By acknowledging oneÕs choices, one has the opportunity to overcome prejudices, fears, false pride, and other barriers in oneÕs life, thus freeing oneself to the sharing of knowledge.

Exhibitions range from 2000 square feet interactive spaces to electronically connecting two separate gallery spaces. These solo interactive installations have been well received at:

Conley Gallery, California State University Fresno
Gallery 25, Fresno, CA
Pence Gallery, Davis, CA
Gallery 10 Limited, Washington D.C.
Jerry Solomon Gallery, Los Angeles, CA
ArtistsÕ Gallery, Des Moines, IA
UC VIDEO, Minneapolis, MN
Art Institute of Chicago, Chicago, IL
Herald Square Subway Complex, NY
NY SOHO 20, NYC, NY
Des Moines Art Center, Des Moines, IA
Bakersfield College, Bakersfield, CA
Diversity Expo, Fresno, CA
Danceworks Unlimited, Fresno, CA

I enjoy the excitement of creating interactive spaces which contribute to self-awareness of ones choices in life. I strive to convey the messages of my installations without the use of artifacts.