While at the class MakerSpace, I played primarily with the Spinbots, a clever DIY, battery-powered device that draws a circular path as it spins.

I chose this activity, because there is something about automation that I find very appealing about Automation. Of knowing that once adjusted, you can have an object run a predictable sequence for all eternity (or until the battery runs out).

It was the first time I had encountered this device, yet its form revealed its function almost immediately. Assembly consisted of a base with an attached battery module and a vibrating/rotating motor, and three detachable “legs”, one containing a slot for the marker of your choice. I appreciated the minimalist design, it made wonder how it could inform other that of other devices that supervene on systematic motion.
Once unleashed, the Spinbot drew at least 100,000 circular objects. So the making was in preparing the tool, and in using it. In fact, using it required less of our participation than preparing it, the opposite of traditional mediums like brush and canvas.  From that insight, I learned that in art, the genius is sometimes in doing differently what people would least guess can be done differently.

Given more time, I would play with Makey Makey. I was able to play Beethoven fifth on bits of clay and a potato, but i don’t fully understand it.

Makerspace experience – due before class Nov. 20th:

(I’d prefer to not show my face, thanks for understanding)