Motion in Milan
John Hill
20. April 2015
Photo: Martin Lindros
For Hyundai's participation in Milan Design Week 2015, California-based kinetic sculptor Reuben Margolin created "Helio Curve," an undulating wood sculpture that "never repeats itself."
Photo: Martin Lindros
"Helio Curve" was made from 400 open-cell wood blocks, steel, string, pulleys, and two motors, all of the parts exposed to create what looks like a cross between current technology and the mechanisms of Leonardo da Vinci. Margolin used CNC (computer numerical control) technology to craft the T-shaped wood blocks that interlock with each other for lateral stability while allowing for vertical movement. The two mechanical drives spun slowly to raise and lower the wood blocks in a constantly varying motion, accentuated by the static cube frame that housed the sculpture. Additional elements included the lighting, which drew attention to the blocks and casted moving shadows, and a soundtrack developed by Hyundai Motor’s Sound Design Research Lab.
"Helio Curve" was the second "Sculpture in Motion" that Hyundai has commissioned for Milan Design Week.
The artist explains the making of "Helio Curve":
Last year's Sculpture in Motion, "FLUIDIC" by WHITEvoid interactive art & design: