With all the discussion of software-steeped art, I felt a reactionary desire for embodiment. So I found myself attracted to projects with materiality, such as the Gravity Stool displayed above (with a making of video below). Using the forces of gravity and a very strong magnetic field, Jolan Van der Wiel crafts these unique and unusual pieces of furniture. Although I am an outsider to the world of design, I do know that chairs are almost symbolic objects. As this is my first university class in art or design, I thought my first Looking Outward could explore this prototypical example of the intersection of artistry and functionality in the vehicle of a chair. I appreciate the creative setup where elements of chance join forces with nature. I find the results a bit terrifying, with sharp edges and a stool that may or may not be able to support its user.

Gravity Stool by Jolan Van der Wiel

[vimeo=http://vimeo.com/34773498]

Source: http://www.designboom.com/weblog/cat/8/view/18643/jolan-van-der-wiel-gravity-stool.html

The algorithms alluded to in generative art, which Golan called morpho-synthesis, must have captured my imagination as the decaying ‘buildings’ seem to have both crystaline structures and traditional architectural forms. I enjoy the structural elements that jump off the canvas and am curious why the artist chose to douse his creations in one color of paint. Individuality fades in the face of erosion and time? Again escaping the world of software, these dystopian architectural paintings, created by Jerry Joran, enter and share our space. Though this time created by application of human handicraft, it is as if nature has already begun our degradation, reminding us of our impermanence.

The Diaroma Paintings of Jerry Judah

Source: http://dataisnature.com/?p=599 and http://www.judah.co.uk/paintings/

We have explored growth through natural forces, civilization growth in conflict with natural decay, and now I show you mechanical growth in a human body.  The video below is fictional and speaks of a future where we are joined with machines but they take us over from the inside.  These mechanical structures have adopted the technique of viral or crystaline growth to grow from seeemingly innocuous implants that were meant to help our age-weakened bodies survive. Dystopian blends with organic generation and degradation. The story could equally be a physical metaphor for cancer or an internalization of how computer viruses might capture and transform our data. It also reminded me of our first assignment. Random numbers generating complex but aesthetically-pleasing forms based on a few rules. The results of algorithms can be dangerous as well as beautiful.

Beware of Metalosis Maligna by Floris Kaayk
[vimeo=http://vimeo.com/1192666]

Source: We Make Money Not Art (though original links are broken)