Interactive drawing machine that produces infinitely unique drawings
Built unlike most drawing machines, this harmonograph was designed for heavy public use and abuse in the Brooklyn Museum lobby. It endured two months and thousands of drawings in the main entryway before being put on display at Pratt Institute.
The harmonograph leverages three linked pendulums that swing at different frequencies to draw Lissajous curves. As these curves slowly repeat over themselves, beautiful, almost three-dimensional designs emerge on the page.
Objective:
To design and fabricate an interactive public art piece for museum-goers at the Brooklyn Museum. The piece must be accessible to children and adults at all art skill levels.
Result:
A playful machine that is as mesmerizing to watch as it is fun to use. The overlapping Lissajous curves laid down on the paper are as unique as the hands that put the machine into motion. Users can keep their one-of-a-kind drawings for future inspiration.
Children experiencing the harmonograph during its time in the foyer of the Brooklyn Museum.
The drawings are heavily influenced by how the user initially applies force to the pen holder and drawing surface.
