Shadow Drawing is an art installation by the artist Mathew Ritchie. Its form draws from the mathematical model of a Henon Attractor, named after the French Astronomer Michael Henon, who introduced the concept in 1976. A Henon Attractor is a concept from a branch of mathematics called the field of dynamical systems where simple equations are capable of generating complex, chaotic, and beautiful patterns.
In this piece, the artist uses laser cut plates of rolled steel to describe a geometry that is simple yet complex, static yet dynamic. Analytically, the engineering adds a further dimension to this concept. The chaotic nature of wind movement through the sculpture creates a complex response in terms of deflection, stress, and vibration. The dynamic nature of the loading is resolved by the structure which stands as a static response, highlighting the duality of the artist’s conception.
Analysis of the sculpture relied upon a process capable of communicating the dynamic interplay between the static form and resulting shape, resulting in a structure that is complex yet elegant.
Details of connections of individual components were critical to the visual success of the installation. The locations of each connection were carefully chosen to facilitate shipping and erection while respecting areas of high stress.
PROJECT TEAM
Artist: Matthew Ritchie, Fabricator: Desert Metal Works
