Clair Hartmann

Clair Hartmann, born Clair Anne Woods, is a native of Jacksonville, Florida. Her American ancestry goes back to the 1700's when a ship of natives of the Spanish coast Island of Menorca arrived in the states only to be put into slavery working the indigo fields. These spirited people were able to escape their situation and procure their freedom in St. Augustine. They eventually settled in Mayport, Florida.

Mrs. Hartmann's childhood was spent on the beach - building sand castles, playing in tidal pools and chasing fish in the surf with her dog. This became a foundation for her love of nature and imagination, both of which shaped the creative force in her life. At an early age she began drawing from life and photographic images. Her uncle, Jimmy C. Lueders, 1927 - 1995, was an accomplished painter teaching at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts and living out his years in Philadelphia. Clair was inspired by her uncle's life and work and through his example saw the possibilities of art as a career. Later, when she enrolled in the Graphic Design Program at the Art Institute in Ft. Lauderdale her vision became tangible. The traditional curriculum included the essentials of design layout but also focused on life drawing, painting, photography, and computer-assisted design - giving Clair varied and practical skills. After completing school and working in New York, she moved back to Jacksonville. She worked for several years in the art department of the Florida Times-Union and for a local magazine before branching out on her own.

She began a graphic design company, Clair Hartmann Design, in 2001. Now, as an independent artist and entrepreneur, Hartmann has time to pursue her love of painting and drawing. 'I believe creativity is what gives me hope and gets me up in morning. I try to surround myself with its positive force in all aspects of my life, within any medium.' says Hartmann. Through paint, Clair continues to explore ideas, heritage and her relationship with nature.

2006 ART UNLEASHED...
'Best in Show' for painting & 'Honorable Mention'
for photography
2006 BRAIDS ARTREACH...
'2nd Place' for painting,
2006 ART AFTER DARK...
Featured Artist, Florida Theatre Show
2006 TWO STEPS FORWARD...
Clair Hartmann and Sharla T. Valeski
2006 ARTICULATION...
Eight Woman Artists
2006 PATRONS OF THE HEARTS...
Ponte Vedra Cultural Center
2006 ART AND WINFEST 2006
2006 PRESENCE Art Exhibit, Art & Soul Program
2006 PATRONS OF THE HEARTS... Fogle Fine Arts
2006 CORKS AND CANVAS
2006 IN HELL... One Woman Show
2006 THE BEST IN FLORIDA...
Artists Registry.com Members Exhibit, CityArts Factory