My personal aesthetic is generally to keep things simple or minimal. I like clothing that can be used for multiple things without much text or logos. I like a simple workspace and room, and I like natural colors in my spaces, and love the look of minimalist modern art in my decorations.
I think my personal aesthetic draws on minimalism certainly, but I grew up around a lot of cubism work, and have always enjoyed Bauhaus.
I think my main project will stick with this general trend, but explore the intersection of mechanical devices and art to create natural looking patterning. I’ve been really interested in mechanically drawn artwork for a few years, have always wanted to build a machine that draws art mechanically with my own approach.
Many different forms of drawing machines exist. some are simple hand cranked tools, while others are complicated machines using multiple motors and computer software.
A simple drawing machine that’s hand cranked.
A more complicated option, this artist also made the one below
I think ultimately, the more hinge points you can add, the more complex and varied drawings that can be made. I’d ultimately like to get as complicated as I can depending on my budget. Initial guesses at cost on parts to build the machine pictured above (second one) are quite high, likely thousands. However, I could probably design something smaller for far less.
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I’ve always been fascinated by the concept of mechanically crafted art, and drawing machines are a great example of this! I would love to see some of your designs for your drawing machine, including how many different points of rotation you plan on including. How do you plan on constructing this mechanism? I imagine 3D printing might be the most economically viable option.
Thanks all for the comments!
Palmer, I’m thinking ill either use all metal or a combination of wood and metal to save cost. Ideally I’d like to be able to tune the assembly to make a range of shapes etc. We’ll see!
Will, I’m thinking start with ball point as its such a simple mechanism but I’d like to eventually use something that allows for different sizes of lines. I’m excited to try it out and see what works!
Hi Roger, I really like the idea of a powered spirograph! Do you know what materials that you want to use and what types of patterns you want it to create? I am excited to see how this project evolves and comes together. I also really like your introduction of your personal aesthetic and how you tied it to the aesthetic of your final project.
Drawing machines are such cool projects. I’m really looking forward to seeing your take.
Have you considered what sort of pen/marker/pencil you’d like to use?