Upward Mobility
This piece was a private commission, based on the theme of a “Space Ark”.
Initially the idea was that the ship would be filled with specimens. Gradually it evolved into the idea that it was a life-boat for the American Middle Class. Blasting a slice of mediocrity into space may be the last hope of preserving that way of life.
Every element was found — scrap yards, second-hand stores, dumpsters — then cleaned, stripped, sorted and rebuilt. Found aluminum is TIG-welded and sanded seamless; nothing is cast. The electronics are salvaged from consumer devices, repaired and rewired so the piece does something when you touch it.
Upward Mobility, 2018 · 43” x 37” x 16”
Upward Mobility, 2018 · 43” x 37” x 16”
Upward Mobility, 2018 · 43” x 37” x 16”
Upward Mobility, 2018 · 43” x 37” x 16”
Upward Mobility, 2018 · 43” x 37” x 16”
Upward Mobility, 2018 · 43” x 37” x 16”
Upward Mobility, 2018 · 43” x 37” x 16”
Upward Mobility, 2018 · 43” x 37” x 16”
Materials
Everything in this piece had a previous life. Nemo’s own inventory, in his words.
Aircraft wing tips, aircraft hardware, bandsaw cover, ice cream dishes, acrylic dome, engine intake, crystal, model train scenery, machined aluminum, motors, LEDs.
