Cognitive Synergy was commissioned by the Rotary Club of Olympia in recognition of 100 years of service to their beloved city.
Etched into the coloured acrylic portholes or designed into the aluminum gears are symbols reflecting the works of the Rotary Club of Olympia and the essence of Olympia itself. These details range from topographical maps, renderings of indigenous flora and fauna to more abstract symbolism. The transition from layered to smooth aluminum as well as a few motifs in the gears represents man’s impact on the world and our progression from analog to digital (a consistent theme of my work).
I wanted to make something multi-interactive. Every panel or engraving was my attempt to tell a story. A few of the 100 gears were even hidden to add one more layer of interaction. Every inch of the piece was filed, rounded, and sanded to ensure a safe interactive experience.
My time with Cognitive Synergy was truly a labour of love. I am thankful the Rotary Club of Olympia trusted me to tell their story through art.
Specifications:
Cognitive Synergy stands 10 feet tall. The fingers span 5 feet while the orb has a circumference of 5.5 feet. The majority of the piece’s 700 pounds is made of 5052 aluminum chosen for its durability, corrosion resistance, and recyclability. The remainder of the piece is made of cast acrylic which stands up admirably to temperature change and sun damage. the piece was first screwed together with stainless steel fasteners and then TIG welded for optimum stability.