Jenny Holzer’s projections are one of her most compelling and innovative forms of art, designed to engage the public directly by utilizing urban and natural environments as canvases for her messages. These works involve projecting text onto various surfaces, such as buildings, landscapes, and water, transforming public spaces into platforms for thought-provoking dialogue on social and political issues. The projections often feature texts that include her own writing, declassified government documents, poetry, and quotes from various authors.

Holzer uses advanced technology to create her projections, employing high-powered projectors to cast text onto large surfaces with clarity and precision. Each projection is site-specific, carefully planned to suit the architectural and cultural context of the location. This meticulous approach ensures that the text interacts meaningfully with its environment, adding layers of significance to the work. By choosing prominent and accessible locations, Holzer maximizes public engagement and democratizes art, making it an integral part of everyday life.

Some of Holzer’s notable projection projects include "Innoculation" in Venice, where she projected texts onto historic buildings and canal waters, addressing themes of memory and history. In New York City, she projected poems onto the Rockefeller Center and declassified documents onto building facades, inviting the public to scrutinize and question authority. In the United Kingdom, her projections on landmarks like the Tate Modern and Edinburgh Castle tackled issues of war, conflict, and human rights, resonating deeply with diverse audiences.

The themes and messages in Holzer’s projections often focus on political commentary, exploring issues such as war, censorship, and governmental transparency. By using declassified documents and controversial statements, she invites the public to engage critically with authority and consider the complexities of power dynamics. Her texts also evoke strong emotional responses by blending personal reflections with broader social commentary, creating a powerful connection between the viewer and the message.

Holzer’s projections have been widely praised for their innovation and impact, becoming a defining feature of her oeuvre. They exemplify her commitment to using art as a medium for social and political engagement, transforming public spaces into arenas for thought and discourse. Through these works, she continues to challenge viewers to confront uncomfortable truths and consider the complexities of contemporary life, making her art relevant and influential in the ongoing dialogue about societal issues.