Mechanical Lantern

Engineering

This engineered sculpture links 1,700 pieces into a shape-shifting drum larger than the height of a person. The drum grows and shrinks simply by pressing on one of the thirteen rings that make up its structure. These rings are synchronized, so that when one is pushed they all begin to move together, and the sculpture can be rapidly transformed. As the diameter of the rings are adjusted, the shape and proportions of the drum vary greatly. It doesn’t simply change in size alone: its actual profile transforms with each new position.

Designed, built, and photographed in collaboration with Hyemin Cha, Mark Madera, and Levi Shaw-Faber

Photographed in collaboration with Miranda Shugars