 Explorers (1993-1995)
Power antenna, motors, computer;
approx. 36x12x12"; 15lbs ea.
Status: two available for sale, seven
available for exhibition.
The Explorer sculptures are a series of light sensitive machines which model simple
animal behavior, specifically the eyestalks of snails, slugs or anemonae. Each is
constructed from an automotive power antenna with a light sensor mounted on its tip and
two x-y axis motors, controlled by a small industrial microcontroller programmed in the
BASIC language.
 Explorers
respond to significant changes in light levels, which are interpreted as either viewer
proximity, or night, as follows: when the room is dark, the devices are dormant, power
antennae retracted. When in the presence of sufficient light, each device extends
its antenna and waves it slowly about, pausing periodically. If a viewer casts
a shadow over the tip, the device takes evasive action.
Deeper shadows or being touched may cause the piece to fully retract and stop all
movement for a time. After a few minutes, the sensor will haltingly extend
again and, if undisturbed, resume its search behavior. Though physically
identical, the sculptures differ in "personality." Each responds
with more or less sensitivity to touch and light level changes, and some are more
"cautious" about returning to search mode after a withdrawal.
 The pieces have been shown both individually and in
clusters of from three to seven modules, on their own or in light tight spaces with an
optional electronic lighting controller which slowly fades the ambient lighting up and
down, creating five minute days and nights. This installation, called Colony,
creates a dormant period, with all devices retracted, a dawn in which they wake up, one by
one, a period of high activity, and then a dusk in which they slow down and become dormant
again.
 Each
Explorer needs a six foot circular open space for installation, requires bright, even
lighting, and 120v power. Colony requires a featureless, windowless space
approximately 15 feet square, and a separate lighting circuit into which I can connect the
controller.
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