A tribute to humanity's quest for flight

As part of the 2015 Venice Art Biennale, design firm Studio DRIFT created 'In 20 Steps', a kinetic installation comprising thin glass bars that moved like wings, as a tribute to humanity's quest for flight. 1

In 20 steps captures flight in a single movement, with forty bars arranged in pairs so that their brass-tipped ends meet and act as a pivot. They were attached by thin wires to an electronic system that lengthened and shortened them to create an up and down movement.1 Their synchronised timing looks like the graceful movement of wings.

It was established in an old building on the Venetian island of Murano, which is itself the traditional home of beautiful glass making techniques.

I am sure you will find it both fascinating and mesmerising to watch:

Movie is by Duco Volker, integrated designer, Holland.

DRIFT was established in 2006 by Ralph Nauta and Lonneke Gordijn, who met while studying at the Design Academy in Eindhoven, Holland.

DRIFT is intrigued by the continuous attempts of humankind to deal with its limitations. Their work explores the relationship between nature, technology and mankind through a process involving collaborations with scientists, university departments, research facilities, programmers and engineers. Studio Drift draws their inspiration from nature as a starting point, both in a formal and a philosophical way, while the creative process is fuelled by innovative techniques.2

Their work has been exhibited at The Israel Museum, Jerusalem; Museum of Art and Design, New York; Museum Boijmans van Beuningen, Rotterdam; and the Victoria & Albert Museum, London. 2

Their work is also included in the permanent collections of the Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam; San Francisco Museum of Modern Art; Stedelijk Museum, Amsterdam; and the Victoria & Albert Museum 2

If you would like to see other incredible installations by Studio Drift, click here. 3

Footnotes

With thanks to

  1. Studio Drift, Facebook
  2. Pace Gallery.com
  3. Dezeen.com