Mobile #11

I get
a kick
out
of the way
a thing
can
look
completely
.
.
.
.
.
.
.

Mobile #11

different
after even
an incomplete
revolution.

Spine Series # 9

Another in the spine series of hanging sculptures, made of clay, steel, rubber, wax and pigment, which emerged from musings on biology and culture. This thing could represent a polypeptide chain, or the gene for left-handedness, or a genetically engineered organism designed to ingest toxic waste. I acknowledge that it is no more accurate than those models of atoms which were used to teach us about atoms. The point, if there is one, is that it suggests the hidden small details of life, whether natural or not. It springs and spins in unpredictable ways when messed with.

Kinetic Lithophone #7

This thing is made of clay, steel, and rubber. It can live outside, and when struck with mallets, makes a sound similar to Indonesian gamelan. Because the spaces and shapes are irregular, and the structure sways slightly when played, the musician is required to respond to deviations from intention, which some might call mistakes. One of the best ways to do this is to repeat them, with variations that acknowledge and then improve upon the original rhythmic mishap. This seems like a good exercise, in art, life, and music. It can give you something to do in the garden when weeding has lost its appeal.

Placebos for Troubled Imaginations

This collection of small sculptures was inspired by an article i read about placebos. It seems to scientists that the power of placebos varies based on their appearance. For example, brightly colored capsules are much stronger than plain white tablets. The color red is particularly relevant. I made them in these times when we are constantly required to swallow bitter existential pills. They speak to the power of our imaginations and the connection between mind and body, pleasure, humor and health. They are made so that they can sit as they do here, or be mounted on a wall. The idea is that gazing upon them might cause an intricate feeling-better response in the viewer. They are also part of the departure from food-safe pottery making. One could try to take them with food or water, but that might not make one feel better.

The Material Swirl

It began as a means to move beyond the glassy surface of food-safe pottery making. Once released from the imperative of that practicality, why not make clay fly?

These contraptions change shape as air moves them.

They can be played with a stick, not for noise but for movement. I suggest your favorite music as an accompaniment to this action.

Placing such a thing over one's bed can give delight and comfort in the moments before sleep or upon waking.

These are best when built specifically for a given space.
Sticks to play them provided upon request.

Recently Discovered Evidence of an Early Ancient Future

In these mad times, it is good to make reasons for people to gaze upward. I make things out of clay, steel, rubber, wax and pigment, and find places to hang them.