DRAWING
INSPIRATION
WHAT WE ARE DOING
WHY WE ARE DOING IT
Researching a unique example (precedent) of a drawing machine and presenting it to the class.
In order to build a library of precedents that can inspire our own novel project ideas.
Preview all of the drawing machine examples.
Select an example to dive deep into.
Create a sign up sheet to ensure no repeats.
Research to fully understand what that attachment is used for.
What makes it unique? What makes it interesting?
Save a collection of pictures and create a presentation of your chosen machine. Tell the story of the experience it can create.
We will all share in a short presentation our case studies.
This will build a library of knowledge for the studio.
1st
2nd
3rd
4th
START WITH THE VIDEO LIBRARY
You can research outside of this list (Google, YouTube, Wikipedia etc.) to find other resources.
Check the toolbox
Jean Tinguely (1925-1991), Méta-Matic No. 6, 1959
Link - Click Here
Sun Yuan and Peng Yu
Can’t Help Myself
What it is: Industrial robot in a cage, programmed to push a red liquid back into a circle.
How it works: Sensors detect the spreading liquid; the robot sweeps it endlessly, creating a continuous, repetitive motion.
Why it matters: Shows a machine performing an expressive, Sisyphean task—connecting robotics, motion, and art in a dramatic, visual way.
Link - Click Here
Nick Sayers — Giant Drawing Machines
Large interactive drawing contraptions made from recycled bicycle parts that produce Spirograph‑like patterns and pantograph drawings — popular at science festivals and workshops.
Link - Click Here
Sougwen Chung — Assembly Lines
A performance‑based robotic art installation where robots collaborate with the artist in painting/drawing, exploring co‑creation between humans and machines.
Link - Click Here
Answer the following questions:
- What is the primary function of the drawing machine you studied?
- How does the machine enhance the artistic capabilities of its user?
- In what ways do you find the machine innovative or creative?
- Can you identify any unique materials or technologies used in the machine?
- Discuss any design challenges the creators might have faced. How were these challenges overcome?
- Imagine an alternative use for the machine outside its intended purpose. What is it, and how would it work?
Save a collection of pictures and create a presentation of your chosen machine.
3rd
Now that you've seen creative drawing machines, share your chosen precedent to inspire creative project concepts. The larger the library of examples, the better.
4th
PRESENTATION TEMPLATE
Drawing Machine Name
Answers here
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Prompt
Designers review precedents (relevant prior work made by artists and designers) in order to gain inspiration for their own designs. In this activity, you'll review drawing machine precedents and consider what elements might inspire your own work in this studio.