Tom Wilkinson: Lightwave

Stemming from an early fascination with illusion and movement, Tom Wilkinsons kinetic sculptures draw inspiration from astronomy and metaphysics. His work reflects the constant motions, cyclical patterns and kinetic energies that are universally present in our surroundings and the patterns made. Wilkinson also investigates the ambiguous nature of matter; the glass in Light Wave appears to be molten, inviting us to reflect on the paradoxical nature of glass as an amorphous solid.

In 1998 Wilkinson began to experiment with spinning lines of lights whereby the traces produce voluminous forms. The sculptures, Green Ray and Lets Bounce, create illusory balls of light in mid air and have the presence of laboratory apparatus, suggesting an unfinished journey. These works explore concepts of dimension and reality within the physical world by recognising that seemingly solid physical objects are made of particles in motion with vast gaps of nothingness within their atoms. The sphere is of particular interest to Wilkinson, considering it to be the purest form in the physical world, the shape to which all matter, when fluid, gravitates.

The mechanism behind light is fascinating, - all material things are fizzing with vibration, and as light interacts, colour is produced.

"Light Wave"
glass, aluminium, stainless steel, nylon and electric motor
450 x 168 x 110 cm


For further information please go to the Contemporary Art Society Website



Image: courtesy of Tom Wilkinson

Category:

Science & Technology

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• lightwave