KE Sculpture: Existing in Possibility

This kinetic sculpture course is about making
things that work and going deep into our problem
solving minds. We will aim to demystify and employ
analog electronics and mechanisms, study organic
and engineered systems and energies, and explore
the manifold ways to design and make things move
in service to artistic vision.
This studio-oriented class, with a strong physical
basis, will include metal and wood shop technical
demonstrations and ongoing advising. Students will
be integrating movement into the design of the
work, hence we will consider, e.g., structure,
force, vibration, and balance as we cover various
building techniques, the
physical properties of materials, and material
connections (literally the nuts and bolts of
making). Students will gain a foundational
knowledge of mechanics and analog electronics
(motors, gears, springs, solenoids, relays,
pumps, etc) while also highly encouraged to
explore alternative energy sources (wind, water,
thermal, magnetic);
Consider making art as though the earth really
matters.
The goal of this class is to make things that
function and stay together. The process of idea to
objecthood will include sketching, technical
drawing, problem solving, project planning, model
making, and experimenting/testing. Students will
keep a sketchbook dedicated to design development.
Readings and group discussions will include a
survey of kinetic and mechanical art as well as
explore commonalities among selected
environmental, social, and engineered systems:
physical properties, mechanical
characteristics, correlative motions or states. We
will strive to expand our technical vocabulary and
knowledge of scientific concepts through the
investigation of these systems and our
relationship to them.