2-4 Sculpture

Oct. 19, 2012

Still chewing what I've bitten off

Here's my latest sculpture.

It was tricky to find three of the same long-cage (6-7 speed) derailleurs here. I had to strip the third one off an un-refurbished bike. As usual, all parts come from bicycles. Meant to be wall-mounted, this bastard was hard to build, which is why I want $125 for it. The derailleurs are spring-loaded and kept shifting around during chain installation. Its the ninth piece I've conjured up since 2005 (the first six were quickly snapped up before I moved to Smiths Falls).

So, what does it represent. Circles, triangles, continuous links, steel, chrome, rust, nothing left incomplete or hanging. Long-cage derailleurs were deliberately chosen to strike the right balance of proportions. The specific type of components incorporated suggest a functionality. Some find spiritual symbolism like the Trinity, or even a fragment of the Star of David. Other non-monotheistic symbols may come to mind including the wheel of life or cycles of nature. And yet, if taken down and hurtled correctly, this object will surely maim.

This sculpture is a crest. All the parts co-operate. They have been extracted from their original purpose and given a new and unsanctioned symbolic one; humans can take what they can and reinvent to celebrate life--your own life while you are living it and then acknowledging it took place, after you have gone. You may not be free or perfect, but you are here so celebrate it.