Gina Von Hartmann is a vibrant force in the contemporary art scene, and she is currently serving as the Head Curator of the Ray Drew & Kennedy Galleries and University Art Collections at New Mexico Highlands University.
Von Hartmann is looking to boost the understanding of local art through the upcoming presentation, Evenings with O’Keeffe, which will explore Georgia O’Keeffe’s legacy through a series of thematic conversations featuring voices from diverse disciplines and backgrounds. The event will take place on Thursday, November 21, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at 217 Johnson St in Santa Fe, New Mexico.
Originally from Cincinnati, Ohio, Von Hartmann possesses a rich tapestry of experiences drawn from her time in Oregon, California, New York, and Great Britian.
With a Bachelor of Fine Arts from The Art Academy of Cincinnati — a prestigious institution known for its museum connections — she has cultivated a career that straddles both the fine art and advertising worlds.
Von Hartmann reflected on her journey back to the fine arts, emphasizing the importance of passion and resilience: “I always say follow the wind when it blows,” which highlights how her career path unfolded organically rather than through a rigid plan.
Her early experiences at the Art Academy instilled a profound understanding of museums and their purpose.
“Our classes were deeply rooted on understanding what museums represent, enhancing my theoretical knowledge, and providing me with a practical understanding of museum operations,” she said.
Her hands-on experiences as a night guard further deepened her appreciation for the institution’s mission and solidified her desire to contribute meaningfully to the art community.
“I spent a lot of time working one-on-one all by myself, and it’s awesome; it makes you fall in love with the institution,” she reflected.
This connection to the museum not only shaped her artistic vision but also influenced her approach to curation and reinforced her belief that art should be accessible and engaging for everyone.
“I believe in making connections with others, whether it’s artists or students. One connection can lead to another, and that connection can suddenly lead to an opportunity,” she said, underscoring the importance of networking and collaboration in the art world.
Von Hartmann’s path into curation began with freelance projects for friends, where she realized her unique ability to see the exhibition as a cohesive piece of art itself.
“A lot of artists are too close to the work they represent; they don’t understand that the show itself is a piece of art,” she noted.
This realization led to her first significant role as a curator at the Mary Baskett Gallery in Cincinnati, where she honed her skills and began to make a name for herself in the art community.
Von Hartmann’s passion for community-oriented galleries stems from a joyful approach to art, where she aims to uplift others while pursuing her own creative endeavors.
She also emphasized the role of the positive energy she brings to her projects. “Being joyful gets you a lot farther,” she explained.
This philosophy is evident in the O’Keeffe event, which should present an interesting perspective on one of New Mexico’s most influential artists.
“I look forward to hearing about all the panelists’ journeys and how these strong women individually achieved significant roles in our field,” she said, highlighting her commitment to inclusivity and representation in the arts.
By creating a platform for dialogue and shared experiences, Von Hartmann hopes to inspire the next generation of artists and curators by demonstrating that diverse pathways can lead to fulfilling careers in the arts.
For young women aspiring to enter the art world, Von Hartmann’s advice is clear:
“Push hard, don’t take no for an answer, believe in yourself, know your worth and fight that uphill battle.”
As she continues to curate and inspire, Gina Von Hartmann remains dedicated to her mission of enriching the artistic landscape and empowering those around her. Her journey is a testament to the power of connection, community, and an unwavering commitment to the arts.
For more information about NMHU’s Arts program, upcoming events, and opportunities to participate, please contact Gina Von Hartman at ginaahartmann@nmhu.edu.