A/V Elevator

The Audio in the Elevator program was initiated in 1990, after a new, albeit flawed, hydraulic system was installed in the elevator shaft of the General Tools building (where Art in General is sited) replacing the original freight elevator. While a new lift and system were set in place, some parts of the old technology remained in operation, causing the elevator ride to run at a much slower place than normal. The ride from the street-level to the 6th floor, where the gallery is located, takes 38 seconds. This may seem commonplace for some. But in New York City, where things appear to run at a much higher speed, the slowness of this elevator ride is something rather peculiar.

Inspired by artist Ed Tomney, who that same year created a sound installation in and for the building’s stairwell, the elevator as a passageway and, in particular, its unusual tempo, became an interesting situation. Art in General approached this circumstance creatively, and soon after turned its elevator bank into an exhibition space, where one to five audio artworks are presented consecutively throughout the year.

Current: the way things are