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An online portfolio website featuring my new series of human powered machines
If you have any questions or comments, feel free to contact me
I recently graduated from the MFA program in Metals/Blacksmithing at Southern Illinois University Carbondale.
After receiving a B.F.A. in Computer Animation with a Minor in Painting, I decided to change fields to the study of forging and machining metals.
My graduate school research has led me to focus on creating interactive mechanical
sculptures for almost four years now. I am heavily informed and inspired by machines
throughout time that display qualities of beauty, elegance, and efficiency. I have also found
myself focusing on the juxtaposition of historical techniques and futuristic materials, forged steel
and foams. Another influence is my awareness of a theatrical art experience, which is why I
require human motors as the driving mechanism to each machine’s movements. These
characteristics in conjunction with my desire to make sculptures that are tactile, responsive, and
entertaining have resulted in a variety of absurd playful machines.
Michael Leo Chmielewski
powerhammer6_gmail.com
Use the arrows to scroll through videos of each sculpture
