The Idea Process
figures, mechanics, wood, plex
22" x 12" x 12" (2003)

-----Concepts are synonymous with ideas and often I use the terms interchangeably. One of the most interesting things about ideas, in my opinion, is where they originate. With this in mind, one of my first kinetic works was about the idea process (how ideas come to fruition). The Idea Process began to strengthen my intrigue for developing and working with concepts. The concepts of this work revolve around authorship and the origin of ideas. My inspiration to create this work came from my frustration with hearing people say they came up with an idea all by themselves.  I believe all ideas are derived and adapted from other people and outside stimulus; we do not live in a vacuum.  Thus, when people say they came up with an idea all by themselves they are subscribing to a fallacy.
-----The Idea Process contains a series of sprockets and chains that animate figures inside a box.  When a viewer turns the crank on the piece, it starts a chain reaction, which suggests the flow of ideas from one person to the next. As the viewer turns the outer crank, it makes the clown turn the inner crank. After a few turns of the crank, the small figure’s head lights up and you hear a voice say “ah-ha.” The work is intended to symbolize the flow of ideas through multiple people rather than one person.