Magnetic Waltz
I’ve always been fascinated by ferrofluid, an incredible magnetic liquid that results when ferromagnetic nanoparticles are permanently suspended in a carrier liquid. Magnetic Waltz is an interactive kinetic sculpture based on ferrofluid which invites participants to explore the interplay of magnetics, fluid mechanics, and gravity. The ferrofluid dances and twirls, choreographed via hidden electronically-controlled magnets. The piece uses an oil-based ferrofluid surrounded by an alcohol solution which does not mix with the oil. Surface tension between the oil and alcohol results in some interesting “labryinth” and droplet patterns. Magnetics and fluids provide rich media for kinetic art. I’ve built three versions of this piece: a small tabletop display with a rotary robotic mechanism, a larger version which debuted at Burning Man in 2017 as an honorarium recipient, and a third version which uses high-power electromagnets.
The Beat Box
The Beat Box is a vintage wooden crate emblazoned with images of delicious red beets. As you approach, you hear the sounds of beatboxers who’ve come before you. You push one of the five pulsing arcade-style buttons on top of the crate and lean into a microphone: “Bah dum dum kah! Dum da dum kah!”. You let go of the button and your fresh beat continues on loop. Your friends each take a turn and together you make a joyous cacophony of silliness! Burning Man shifts the paradigm of art from a commodified object of consumption to an interactive, participatory, shared experience of creative expression. Everyone loves music, but many people have never experienced the joy of making music. This piece illustrates how easy and fun that process can be. The Beat Box has been exhibited at Burning Man and various other festivals and parties. It’s enjoyed by adults and kids alike.
Experience Vending Machine
We converted a 1980s snack machine into a retro-futuristic UFO, packed with “experience” kits that enhance sensory awareness and human connections. The Experience Vending Machine was funded by an honorarium grant for Burning Man 2013 and was installed at the man base that year. We brought it to several other festivals and parties (and even a wedding!) in the following years. We vended over 10,000 experiences! Wowzers. That was a lot of licking envelopes. Luckily, no Seinfeld incidents.
