www.markportersculpture.com

Through the fusion of found objects and custom-made objects I create kinetic sculptures, which are mechanical in aesthetic and perform functions, which at times appear counterproductive. In addition, I create Preliminary Drawings, which serve as blueprint or schematics for sculptural projects.

My work is an investigation of the relationship between inventor and invention.
I create mechanical sculptures, which mimic human behavior. Each sculpture I create is built to perform a function, which in some way makes it a kinetic, performative work. As time is an element of my kinetic works, they communicate the idea of impermanence. Rarely do I consider my works to be “finished”. My sculptures change throughout their use; they build up residue, become damaged, need modifications and are always configured differently each time they are set up.

My sculptures and Preliminary Drawings communicate a question of their own necessity, success and/or lack of success. Tubes, which pump water or air and wires, which conduct electricity, draw reference to the human circulatory system and serve as the breath of life source of the machine. The viewer is to examine the function of each sculpture and is to determine the intention and success of its’ function.

The creation of each sculpture begins with a Preliminary Drawing. The Preliminary Drawings are schematic and serve as documentation of the development of a design. I reference these drawings as I construct each sculpture. Design modifications are made and new drawings are created. Each construction is a combination of custom-made parts and found-objects. I search throughout the city of Chicago, where I live and work, for specific found-objects. The hand-made quality of these machines draws reference to this search, to my role as their inventor and their role as an extension of my thoughts.

Mark Porter, 2009