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| Enveloped - Kinetic Sculpture (2008) video |
Adolescent memories often evoke strong emotions and nostalgia, particularly those related to making and tinkering. The experiences we have during our formative years are deeply ingrained, often influencing our interests and passions well into adulthood. Creating during those early years—experimenting with materials, and bringing ideas to life—fosters a deep connection to the physical world. This hands-on engagement is not just about the act of making; it’s about the sense of wonder and satisfaction that comes from seeing one’s imagination take tangible form.
My co-artist, Mike Burdman, and I drew from these emotional memories to create Enveloped, our first collaborative project. We wanted to capture the essence of those formative experiences, the excitement and curiosity that characterized our childhoods. Guided by these memories, we sought out found objects—ordinary items that, with a bit of creativity and ingenuity, could be transformed into something extraordinary. Our goal was to construct a kinetic sculpture that not only reflected our shared past but also engaged viewers in a similar sense of exploration and discovery.
Enveloped allows viewers to be at its center, surrounded by sound and motion. This multi-sensory environment is designed to spark curiosity and imagination, inviting viewers to interact with the sculpture in a way that transforms their perception of ordinary objects. The sculpture's dynamic elements—its movement, sounds, and the interplay of light and shadow—create an immersive experience that draws viewers in, encouraging them to explore and engage with the piece from different angles.
Our collaboration on Enveloped merges our creative energies and histories, blending our individual experiences and perspectives into a unified work of art. This project is more than just a sculpture; it is an invitation to remember, explore, and create. By stepping into the center of Enveloped, viewers are encouraged to reconnect with their own memories of making and tinkering, to recall the simple joys of childhood creativity. The piece bridges past and present, offering a continuous journey of wonder and discovery.
Through Enveloped, we hope to inspire viewers to see the beauty and potential in the objects and materials that surround them. Just as we found joy and fulfillment in transforming found objects, we invite others to engage with their environment in new and imaginative ways. Enveloped stands as a testament to the enduring power of creativity, reminding us all of the magic that can be found in the act of making.