Due: Thurs. Mar. 16, class time, with intermediate results on Feb 28 and Mar 14.

For this module you will learn how to create action through building a hand-operated machine. This includes: hand-cranks, levers, wheels, string pulleys, and simple wooden mechanisms. A hand-operated machine allows a person (you or another) to activate the machine in one location, while the machine “performs” the outcome at a different location. Thus the theme for this assignment is “Action at a Distance”.

Action at a Distance can take on many forms: performing for another, performing for self, relaying a secret to one, announcing loudly to many, progressing activating at many points on a line, communicating with a partner back and forth, two operators gesturing simultaneously on one machine, and more.

Specific constraints for the project include:

  • The machine must use cloth, textiles or fiber in what is activated or in the operation.
  • The “machine” must be operated by one or more people.
  • The project must be site-specific and the site needs to be identified in advance.
  • The “machine” must occupy at least 8 feet. (Sparse is fine; two
    widely separated stations connected by string could count. Fullness is fine too; activating a large space with the machine.)
  • No electricity for the movement aspect of the project.
  • The “machine” is operated by hand-cranks, levers, wheels, string pulleys, and simple wooden mechanisms. 
  • We will be providing some simple laser-cut reference parts, but you are welcome to design additional mechanical parts or customize the designs we provide.

You are welcome to use any textile process of your choice, including but not limited to: pleating, shaped resist (shibori), hanging, fluttering, etc.

Deliverables. 

Update #1: due Tues., Feb. 28:

  • Experiment with the hand-cranks, levers, wheels, string pulleys, and simple wooden mechanisms demonstrated and practiced in class.
  • Create a blog post on the class website that documents your experiments and direction for your project. Include a brief video and brief written statement about your process and discoveries.

Update #2: due Tues., Mar. 14:

  • Continue developing the mechanisms for your project.
  • Test out different textiles, yarns, or fabrics as elements. How do the textile elements amplify or restrict the the movement?
  • Create a blog post on the class website that documents your project thus far. Include a brief video and brief written statement about your process and discoveries.

Full Project: due Thursday, Mar. 16:

  • write a blog post on the course website with the following:
    • brief videos* showing the activation of your project.
    • a brief statement for each explaining the intent, notable successes, and informative failures.
  • Install your project so that it is ready to activate and show to class for demonstration and discussion.

* Please give consideration to the backdrop to your video so that it is as least distracting as possible (meaning, unless the site is specific to your performance, please make sure you have a blank background so we can easily see your work.