Hilarey Cowan / Caring Capacity
January 21–March 4, 2022
Virtual artist talk with presenting artists Rachel Rozanski & Hilarey Cowan:
Friday, February 25, 8pm CST, Free, via ZOOM
Hilarey Cowan will show her VR gaming work entitled “Caring Capacity” in our Media Gallery. This work was developed through the MacKenzie Art Gallery’s Digital Artist in Residence (DAiR) program.
In this game, the user is immersed in a world that is icy and barren. Various objects appear with time-sensitive, declining “health” bars. The objects wither away as the corresponding health bar turns red. The user is invited to help, to increase the health of the objects and stave off their disappearance.
“By touching and interacting with them, you are adding CareValue. These CareObjects need this to grow, and eventually spawn smaller versions of themselves. Each CareObject has a notification sound along with it, it’s pitch being attached to its current CareValue. Together these create a layered and sometimes overwhelming soundscape, especially as they begin to spawn.”
The “Caring Capacity” media art installation will be available by appointment to gamers and gallery goers alike.
To book your private viewing/gameplay, email artistic@pavedarts.ca today!
Artist Bio:
Hilarey Cowan is an artist, researcher and adaptable freelancer, working between video, sculpture and performance. She holds a degree in architecture from Carleton University, as well as a BAC in Sculpture and Media from The Académie Royale des Beaux-Arts in Brussels. Currently based in Saskatchewan on Treaty 4 territory, her work explores ideas around labour, care, alienation, networks, geography and touch. Recent projects include calming informational services on community radio, an audio / video installation based around static and the beginning of the universe, along with durational performances meditating on the feeling of love. Recent shows include Toronto’s Vector Festival, The MacKenzie Art Gallery, and PAVED Arts.
