Smart-Austin (Socially Motivated Art - Austin) is a non-profit arts organization, founded in February of 2004.
We furnish individuals and communities with direct support for the funding, creation, display and donation of interactive artworks (art that generates social interaction) to enhance the cultural legacy of our generation.
Our innovative model of collaboration brings together students, artists/non-artists, community members, businesses and organizations to create a visually stunning and playful environment.
In a larger context, it is the mission of SmART to promote "community" by including civic members in the creative process and removing the finished product from sedentary galleries and reintegrating it into communal spaces.
We are disenfranchised by art that says "Do not touch". We want to play with ours. Blur the line between reality & fantasy, work & play, form & function, fine art & public art. Statues and paintings are beautiful, but we want something more. A statue of Pecos Bill is ok, but imagine Pecos swinging around (as moved by a public control panel at the base) a 200' twister that doubles as an observation tower...now that is cool! Paintings are fine too. But, an abondoned retaining wall painted to look like a realistic Mayan Temple with both historic and modern hieroglyphs as suggested and painted by community members. That is awsome!
It is up to us, the individuals, to take an active role in creating our ideal community.
"Interactive" art is also known as "participatory." By engaging with the installation, or it's creative process, you become an active and integral part of it. As a result, your experience will be different from mine. This art form helps you create the story of your life. And in turn, you give the art meaning and purpose.
This art form has been gaining popularity in Europe and sections of the United States over the past two decades. Our goal is to further expand the acceptance and proliferation of this type of art. Join with us as we continue creating socially responsible and interactive art!