_One-of-a-kind

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Mingle Study Mix 1

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Mingle Study Mix 1 by David C. Roy of Wood That Works ©2023

Specifications:

Introducing the Mingle study series

One of the best aspects of being semi-retired is having ample time to experiment with new ideas. Instead of merely creating animations or rough prototypes, I can now build finished sculptures, eliminating the uncertainty of how they would function once completed. I took full advantage of this in my Mingle studies.

I initially utilized patterning wheels approximately the same size as those on my Boomerang sculpture. I employed the same base and mechanism because I was familiar with their mechanical capabilities. The patterns were indeed impressive, surpassing my expectations based on the animations. However, these sculptures were large, while I had many requests for designs that could fit on smaller walls. Now that I had the time I accepted the challenge. The patterns were essentially the same for both the large and smaller designs, but the mechanisms differed as I aimed to make the smaller one more compact but still have an extended runtime.

We have thoroughly enjoyed these sculptures in our home and gallery. Now, it is time to showcase and sell them to create space for the next set of studies.

Here are links to each of the five sculptures in this series.

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Calligraphy Prequel

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Calligraphy Prequel Specifications

  • Size: 40” w x 54” h x 7” d

  • Approximate Run Time: 3 Hours

  • Not for Sale

Click here to view the final Calligraphy page.

About Calligraphy Prequel:

In a sense I’ve been working on Calligraphy since 1989 when I stumbled across a fairly crude way to produce a double pendulum motion in a sculpture called Serpentine.

I loved the dynamic motion but I didn’t understand why it only happened at unpredictable times followed by boring periods of simple rotations with the front S form just hanging in a fairly fixed orientation. My mechanism designs of the time were weight driven and quite simple. They didn’t leave me a lot of room for experimenting. I eventually got Serpentine to work fairly well but then moved on to creating more predictable patterning sculptures. Over the years I occasionally played around with double pendulums trying to figure out how to get some control over the motion but gave up when a new unrelated idea came along. I have lots of ideas and have to admit I often gravitated to the ones that I was confident I could master in a reasonable time. 

A couple years ago I “retired” and stopped taking orders for future delivery. This freed me to take all the time I needed to explore more complicated ideas. It is a pretty ideal work balance for me. Periods of intense study and design followed by just letting my brain rest and my hands work making sculptures where I’ve already solved the problems!

That’s a long way around to saying that one of the first projects I wanted to explore was creating chaotic motion sculptures. Chaos is my first piece of this design period, Calligraphy is the second. They are very different sculptures but both exhibit chaotic motion. 

Chaos motion is created and controlled by a spring driven mechanism that only engages when the pendulums slow down a bit. This keeps the amount of energy added to the system more controlled. It is fairly quiet and long running as is the goal with most of my sculptures. 

In Calligraphy I was going for the full Serpentine effect where both “pendulums” can rotate completely around their axis and the “free” pendulum can rotate in either direction. It ended up taking more than a year with lots of up and downs. This is a constantly driven double pendulum system. Eventually it accumulates enough energy to recreate the chaotic dance I first saw more than 40 years ago. 

I would not call this a relaxing sculpture. I had to give up some run time and accept a higher noise level to get the motion I wanted. Still at 3 hours it runs about 6 times longer than my original Serpentine and is a good bit quieter so I did make some progress! Chaotic motion is by definition unpredictable which is what makes it so much fun to have in a kinetic sculpture. That same fact also makes it frustrating for someone like me who seeks to understand it better intuitively. I now have a better grasp of what type of energy levels are required to make fun things happen. But to say I’ve gained a real understanding would be inaccurate. Lots more to explore! 

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Elements - Earth

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Elements-Earth Specifications

  • Size: 38” w X 53” h X6.5” d

  • Approximate Run Time: 20 Hours

  • One-of-a-kind • Sold

  • Elements-Earth © 2023

Elements -Earth, a Kinetic Sculpture by David C. Roy of Wood That Works - ©2023 David C. Roy

Introducing the "Elements" sculpture series:


Observe the fascinating world of moving patterns with my "Elements" series of kinetic sculptures. In this motion study I have used the same mechanism to power four pairs of counter-rotating patterning wheels but have incorporated subtle variations in each. Consisting of four distinct sculptures—“Elements Wind,” “Elements Fire”, “Elements Earth”, and “Elements Water”—this series explores the mesmerizing changes of shape and contrast caused by small tweaks to the underlying form. My goal was to gain understanding of the visual impact these changes created.

At the core of each sculpture lies a shared mechanism, powering two 16-spoke wheels mounted on a central hub.  The spring driven mechanism orchestrates both synchronous and counter-rotational movements of the wheels. The spokes, composed of two arcs, form intriguing patterns when set in motion. I manipulated the inflection point between these arcs in each design resulting in dramatic changes in the resulting optical effects. In “Earth”, the inflection point lies just beyond halfway between the hub and the perimeter. “Water” exhibits a slight shift closer to the hub, followed by “Wind”, and finally, “Fire” with the most extreme shift.

While the hubs remain uniform in size, I have also experimented with dark and light finishes, observing how they influence the perception of scale. Surprisingly, the dark hubs lend a perceived sense of slight reduction in size, adding an intriguing dimension to the sculptures.

Powering these unique sculptures is my signature "silent escapement mechanism," which made its debut in the 1975 sculpture, “Anticipation”. Evolving over time, the current version in the Elements series differs significantly in appearance but retains the fundamental spring driven operation of two arms connected by a slow pawl to cog transfer. This refined interaction ensures the sculptures operate with an enchanting near-silence. Moreover, the mechanism imparts a dual visual experience while rotating the pattern wheels, creating two distinct patterns with a seamless transition. When the wheels turn in opposite directions, a mesmerizing moiré effect unfolds, captivating the eye. Conversely, when the wheels rotate in the same direction at varying rates, a more tranquil, ever-changing pattern emerges, offering a hypnotic allure of its own.

Experience the journey of motion and visual delight with the "Elements" sculpture series—an exploration of form, movement, and the subtle intricacies that shape our perception.

How to wind this sculpture:

All of the Elements scul[tures wind in the same way. David demonstrates in this video:

About the Sound:

The Elements series is nearly silent. There are no clicks.




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Elements - Water

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Elements - Water

  • Size: 38” w X 53” h X6.5” d

  • Approximate Run Time: 20 Hours

  • One-of-a-kind • Sold

  • Elements-Water © 2023

Elements- Water, a kinetic sculpture by David C. Roy of Wood That Works, ©2023 David C. Roy

Introducing the "Elements" sculpture series:



Observe the fascinating world of moving patterns with my "Elements" series of kinetic sculptures. In this motion study I have used the same mechanism to power four pairs of counter-rotating patterning wheels but have incorporated subtle variations in each. Consisting of four distinct sculptures—“Elements Wind,” “Elements Fire”, “Elements Earth”, and “Elements Water”—this series explores the mesmerizing changes of shape and contrast caused by small tweaks to the underlying form. My goal was to gain understanding of the visual impact these changes created.

At the core of each sculpture lies a shared mechanism, powering two 16-spoke wheels mounted on a central hub.  The spring driven mechanism orchestrates both synchronous and counter-rotational movements of the wheels. The spokes, composed of two arcs, form intriguing patterns when set in motion. I manipulated the inflection point between these arcs in each design resulting in dramatic changes in the resulting optical effects. In “Earth”, the inflection point lies just beyond halfway between the hub and the perimeter. “Water” exhibits a slight shift closer to the hub, followed by “Wind”, and finally, “Fire” with the most extreme shift.

While the hubs remain uniform in size, I have also experimented with dark and light finishes, observing how they influence the perception of scale. Surprisingly, the dark hubs lend a perceived sense of slight reduction in size, adding an intriguing dimension to the sculptures.

Powering these unique sculptures is my signature "silent escapement mechanism," which made its debut in the 1975 sculpture, “Anticipation”. Evolving over time, the current version in the Elements series differs significantly in appearance but retains the fundamental spring driven operation of two arms connected by a slow pawl to cog transfer. This refined interaction ensures the sculptures operate with an enchanting near-silence. Moreover, the mechanism imparts a dual visual experience while rotating the pattern wheels, creating two distinct patterns with a seamless transition. When the wheels turn in opposite directions, a mesmerizing moiré effect unfolds, captivating the eye. Conversely, when the wheels rotate in the same direction at varying rates, a more tranquil, ever-changing pattern emerges, offering a hypnotic allure of its own.

Experience the journey of motion and visual delight with the "Elements" sculpture series—an exploration of form, movement, and the subtle intricacies that shape our perception.

How to wind this sculpture:

All of the Elements scul[tures wind in the same way. David demonstrates in this video:

About the Sound:

The Elements series is nearly silent. There are no clicks.



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Elements- Wind

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Elements - Wind Specifications

  • Size: 38” w X 53” h X6.5” d

  • Approximate Run Time: 20 Hours

  • One-of-a-kind • Sold

  • Elements-Wind © 2023

Introducing the "Elements" sculpture series:

Observe the fascinating world of moving patterns with my "Elements" series of kinetic sculptures. In this motion study I have used the same mechanism to power four pairs of counter-rotating patterning wheels but have incorporated subtle variations in each. Consisting of four distinct sculptures—“Elements Wind,” “Elements Fire”, “Elements Earth”, and “Elements Water”—this series explores the mesmerizing changes of shape and contrast caused by small tweaks to the underlying form. My goal was to gain understanding of the visual impact these changes created.

At the core of each sculpture lies a shared mechanism, powering two 16-spoke wheels mounted on a central hub.  The spring driven mechanism orchestrates both synchronous and counter-rotational movements of the wheels. The spokes, composed of two arcs, form intriguing patterns when set in motion. I manipulated the inflection point between these arcs in each design resulting in dramatic changes in the resulting optical effects. In “Earth”, the inflection point lies just beyond halfway between the hub and the perimeter. “Water” exhibits a slight shift closer to the hub, followed by “Wind”, and finally, “Fire” with the most extreme shift.

While the hubs remain uniform in size, I have also experimented with dark and light finishes, observing how they influence the perception of scale. Surprisingly, the dark hubs lend a perceived sense of slight reduction in size, adding an intriguing dimension to the sculptures.

Powering these unique sculptures is my signature "silent escapement mechanism," which made its debut in the 1975 sculpture, “Anticipation”. Evolving over time, the current version in the Elements series differs significantly in appearance but retains the fundamental spring driven operation of two arms connected by a slow pawl to cog transfer. This refined interaction ensures the sculptures operate with an enchanting near-silence. Moreover, the mechanism imparts a dual visual experience while rotating the pattern wheels, creating two distinct patterns with a seamless transition. When the wheels turn in opposite directions, a mesmerizing moiré effect unfolds, captivating the eye. Conversely, when the wheels rotate in the same direction at varying rates, a more tranquil, ever-changing pattern emerges, offering a hypnotic allure of its own.

Experience the journey of motion and visual delight with the "Elements" sculpture series—an exploration of form, movement, and the subtle intricacies that shape our perception.

About the Sound:

The sculpture will make 1 soft click per revolution and a somewhat louder click periodically when the mechanism pushes the wheels.

How to wind this sculpture:

All of the Elements scul[tures wind in the same way. David demonstrates in this video:

About the Sound:

The Elements series is nearly silent. There are no clicks.

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Elements- Fire

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Specifications:

  • Size: 38” w X 53” h X6.5” d

  • Approximate Run Time: 20 Hours

  • One-of-a-kind • Sold

  • Elements-Fire © 2023

Introducing the "Elements" sculpture series:

Observe the fascinating world of moving patterns with my "Elements" series of kinetic sculptures. In this motion study I have used the same mechanism to power four pairs of counter-rotating patterning wheels but have incorporated subtle variations in each. Consisting of four distinct sculptures—“Elements Wind,” “Elements Fire”, “Elements Earth”, and “Elements Water”—this series explores the mesmerizing changes of shape and contrast caused by small tweaks to the underlying form. My goal was to gain understanding of the visual impact these changes created.

At the core of each sculpture lies a shared mechanism, powering two 16-spoke wheels mounted on a central hub.  The spring driven mechanism orchestrates both synchronous and counter-rotational movements of the wheels. The spokes, composed of two arcs, form intriguing patterns when set in motion. I manipulated the inflection point between these arcs in each design resulting in dramatic changes in the resulting optical effects. In “Earth”, the inflection point lies just beyond halfway between the hub and the perimeter. “Water” exhibits a slight shift closer to the hub, followed by “Wind”, and finally, “Fire” with the most extreme shift.

While the hubs remain uniform in size, I have also experimented with dark and light finishes, observing how they influence the perception of scale. Surprisingly, the dark hubs lend a perceived sense of slight reduction in size, adding an intriguing dimension to the sculptures.

Powering these unique sculptures is my signature "silent escapement mechanism," which made its debut in the 1975 sculpture, “Anticipation”. Evolving over time, the current version in the Elements series differs significantly in appearance but retains the fundamental spring driven operation of two arms connected by a slow pawl to cog transfer. This refined interaction ensures the sculptures operate with an enchanting near-silence. Moreover, the mechanism imparts a dual visual experience while rotating the pattern wheels, creating two distinct patterns with a seamless transition. When the wheels turn in opposite directions, a mesmerizing moiré effect unfolds, captivating the eye. Conversely, when the wheels rotate in the same direction at varying rates, a more tranquil, ever-changing pattern emerges, offering a hypnotic allure of its own.

Experience the journey of motion and visual delight with the "Elements" sculpture series—an exploration of form, movement, and the subtle intricacies that shape our perception.

How to wind this sculpture:

All of the Elements scul[tures wind in the same way. David demonstrates in this video:


About the Sound:

The Elements series is nearly silent. There are no clicks.

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Thunderbird

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  • One-of-a-kind

  • Size: 31” w x 43” h x 6.5” d

  • Approximate Run Time: 35 Hours

  • Sold

  • Thunderbird © 2016

  • To Purchase

About Thunderbird:

I designed and built this sculpture in 2016. It was partially inspired by my sculpture Infinity but I wanted a pattern that was more complex. Infinity had a pattern that was fairly simple.  I designed a chaotic mechanism to drive the pattern in unpredictable ways. I wanted to try the inverse,  a more complex patterning wheel with a predictable drive mechanism. To this end I started playing with an inside out wheel where the spokes were asymmetrical. Asymmetrical wheels are harder to design because finding the balance point is not a simple matter of just finding center. The mass of each section of the wheel has to match its opposing section on the opposite side of the wheel, regardless of the shape of that particular section. I love this kind of challenge. It often reveals interesting patterns. 

I draw my parts in Adobe Illustrator and then animated them in Adobe After Effects. The calculation of center of mass is accomplished in a program no longer produced for the Mac called Working Model.  I use a vintage Mac to run this software and it still preforms admirably. 

The result was a new pattern that I really enjoyed. I decided to drive it with a double spring long running mechanism and live with it in our home. I like living with long running sculptures because my workday is filled with winding and I don’t need more at home. 

The more I watched it the more I wanted to share it. I decided to simplify the wheels a bit using fewer, somewhat thicker spokes and power it with a center drive mechanism. Eventually this became Duality which I introduced in 2017 and it became a collector favorite. 

So now it’s years later and although I still enjoy my long running Thunderbird it’s time to sell it and make room for some new designs. I’ve been doing a lot of designing since my “retirement” and I need the wall space!