From 1996-2008 Mary Carothers and Sue Wrbican conducted several projects revolving around mobility, landscape, power structures, and the collective and individual psychologies that influence American culture. Public engagement was a central aspect which also influenced the direction of the projects which allowed for unpredictable twists, giving the "wild card" equal importance as the initial concept. Projects included elements such as converting cars into mobile laboratories, developing icons to take on new meanings and performative fire-y acts to address American complacency, tourism and consumerism. Photographic and video documentation served as a constant thread in the artist's explorations ultimately taking the shape of multi-media and experiential installations.

Mary Carothers and Sue Wrbican met at the Rhode Island School of Design from which they both obtained an MFA In Photography. Carothers is currently Professor of Art at University of Louisville, Kentucky. Wrbican is currently Professor of Photography at George Mason University.

As a collaborative duo, Mary Carothers and Sue Wrbican have exhibited with CEPA Gallery, DUMBO Festival, Pittsburgh Filmmakers, Atlanta College of Art and Gustavus Adolphus College. They have received grants from The Mid Atlantic Foundation for the Arts and the Johnson Foundation in Minnesota. The Frozen Car was supported in part by a Mathy Fellowship from George Mason University.