Technology has advanced throughout the years at an extraordinary pace, a pace that can only be matched by the rate of “the last model’s” obsolescence. How often do we stop to think about the fate of these once-beloved, now defunct relics? A growing trend in the art world is to do just that; gifted artists around the globe have produced some truly amazing works of art by utilizing the very technology that we let fall into disuse every day.
Friendly Giant
(image via: law_kevin)
Towering at nearly 23 feet, this three-ton European megalith of technological refuse, the WEEE Man, is literally a monument to the machinery of our recent past. Designed to be almost too human, this marvel stands as a politico-ecological statement against improper disposal of our most ubiquitous everyday appliances. His teeth are computer-mice. His brain-pan is filled with ancient computer hardware, and most striking of all, his eyes, old washing machine doors.
A Not-So-Friendly Face
(images via: artmachines)
Images of demons may get conjured up when looking at this piece of robot-art by Jeremy Meyer, who builds his sculptures out of nothing but typewriters. While this grinning bot may seem scary, his bedfellows are practically lifelike. You can find more of Jeremy’s stunning work at his gallery in La Jolla, CA, at his equally smooth Web site, or right here at Weburbanist. It’s interesting to note that when building these works, Jeremy uses neither welding nor glue to assist in the process.
A Strange Bridge to Nature
(images via: toysgadget, toysgadget, toysgadget)
Not all techno-sculpture is based on humans. Ann P. Smith dedicates her time to creating robotic animals and insects out of nearly any piece of gadgetry she can put to use. Ann’s creations often feature pose-able joints, and somehow seem to portray a sunny disposition! Her owl may even remind you of a certain favorite stop-motion character from Clash of the Titans. However, Ann doesn’t stop there. She goes as far as to recreate the object of many a child’s imagination, with extraordinary detail. Ann’s art is not kept behind lock and key from the public. She builds and sells her pieces on a regular basis, and you can find more of her work at her Web site.
The Steampunk Angle
(image via: Hrekkjavaka_Astarkort)
Any discussion of obsolete technology would be incomplete these days without mention of Steampunk art. In and of itself, Steampunk idealism is based upon the concept of resurrecting long since dead technology and ways of seeing technology. There is a deep-rooted fascination with all things of the Steam Era, and these run congruently with a startlingly adaptive fashion-sense. Jewelry such as the necklace pictured above is becoming increasingly common, as the popularity of this beautiful and captivating form of practical art grows. This particular piece was made out of nothing but old watch parts.
Folk Art In Any Century
