philip beesley: living sculptures
Sculptures made by Philip Beesely Architecture Inc. are interactive and responsive works composed of a complex network of digitally fabricated acrylic and ABS components, custom glassware, programmable chains of LED lights, infrared sensors and sound speakers. They immerse occupants into a sensory environment and challenge the limits of static architecture.
As Project Lead & Researcher at Philip Beesely Architect Inc.
China Academy of Art
Hangzhou, China 2015
Epiphyte Spring is installed in the Design Institute of Landscape and Architecture, China Academy of Art. The work is composed of transparent acrylic, flexible silicone and custom-fabricated aluminum hardware. The extremely lightweight, durable sculpture functions as a permanent, interactive installation within the architectural space. (credit: philipbeesleyarchitect.com)
project team: Philip Beesely (Artist), Petra Bogias (Project Lead, Project Designer, On-Site Installer and Coordinator), Adam Schwartzentruber (Project Designer, On-Site Installer and Coordinator), Siuban Taylor (Junior Designer), Mon Josef (Engineer), Matthew Chan (Engineer), Salvador Miranda (Communications), Hu (Mike) Zhe (Translator and Hangzhou Liason), production volunteers both in Canada and China.
I designed and developed 3D printed sockets for various light modules. These housed, and concealed the LED bulb and provided cable management. This was a first for the studio, and meant that light modules could be clustered in a more ‘plug-and-play’ manor, rather than being wired on site.
Living Architecture Exhibit, Microwave Media Arts Festival,
Hong Kong, Nov. 2014
Aerial Well Study is composed of a new generation of kinetic mechanisms that pull and twist toward passing visitors, following their movement.
The installation was presented at Exhibition Hall, Low Block, Hong Kong City Hall from November 7-16, 2014, as part of the Microwave International New Media Arts Festival. (credit: philipbeeselyarchitect.com)
Aeriel Well Study houses one of the first algae lights in Philip’s collection. Algae and growth medium were placed in glass vessels. LED lights, integrated in the vessel’s stopper, are then triggered by occupants around the sculpture.
