Automata and Beyond: Playing with Kinetic Sculpture
Dates: May 31 – June 5, 2026
Skill Level: Intermediate
Focus Areas: Sculpture, Automata, Special Topics, Mixed Media
Course Fee: $852.00
Discover the fascinating world of movement, mechanics, and storytelling in Automata and Beyond: Playing with Kinetic Sculpture, an immersive mixed-media workshop designed for intermediate artists ready to bring their creations to life.
This hands-on course explores the core principles of automata—kinetic figurative sculptures powered by mechanical movement, while encouraging experimentation, creative problem-solving, and imaginative design.
Workshop Overview
Students will begin by learning foundational methods for creating mechanical movement before exploring a variety of systems used to animate sculptural forms.
Techniques and concepts explored include:
- Cams and levers
- Pulleys and belt systems
- Counterweights and balance
- Magnets and mechanical motion
- Natural movement powered by wind or water
- Mixed-media approaches to kinetic sculpture
Throughout the workshop, students will engage in active experimentation and trial-and-error learning while developing ideas for movement and interaction within their work.
Hands-On Exploration & Creative Innovation
The workshop places a strong emphasis on playful discovery and creative exploration, encouraging participants to approach the process with curiosity and an open mind. Students will learn how to generate ideas for movement, troubleshoot mechanical challenges, and develop unique sculptural solutions.
By the end of the course, each participant will create a small personal kinetic sculpture or automata piece to take home, whether fully completed or still evolving as part of their creative process.
A Dynamic Mixed-Media Experience
Perfect for artists interested in sculpture, engineering, storytelling, or interactive art, this workshop offers an exciting opportunity to push creative boundaries while gaining practical experience with movement-based design and construction techniques.
Learn More – https://arrowmont.org/workshop/automata-and-beyond-playing-with-kinetic-sculpture/
