Description
and Motivation
Curiously
Strong transforms 250 individually passive objects into
a single living machine. The piece plays on the sequential movement
of a
typical domino chain and is implemented with actuated Altoids™ boxes.
Each box is equipped with an actuator mechanism that opens and
closes the box’s lid when it receives a mechanically controlled
digital signal. Sequential activation of the connected boxes
results in a wave of motion akin to that of a typical domino
chain. Because
the piece is long and flexible, it can be configured to take advantage
of (or playfully interfere with) the natural
organization
of a room and can be experienced by many people at the same time.
The clicking of the lids, as they spring open and fall shut,
creates a
rhythmic, moving soundscape. Thus, depending on the installation,
the piece envelopes the space, both audibly and visually.
Curiously Strong plays
with the notion of what it means to be a kinetic sculpture--it
remains still until the
wave of motion passes through. Furthermore,
the piece can be configured so that it cannot be viewed in its
entirety from any one vantage point. This effectively encourages
visitors
to follow it as it snakes through its course. The rate
of the piece’s
activity can be modulated by changing the speed at which the mechanical
controller rotates.
Curiously
Strong is funded in part by a Director's Grant from the Council
for the Arts at MIT. |