MMXIX Penelope Shell

Cincytech Innovation Hub Offices

Protein Architectures

In Progress Installation for the Cincytech Innovation Hub Offices

Inspired by the molecular architectural studies of  Marcos Novak , I proposed a 2-D sculpture based on the covalent bond architectures of proteins. The structure emulates the protein's hexigonal design and was executed in 1/4" metal rod, joined though welding. I came up with the idea of recreating the protein, because in many ways they serve a similar purpose to Cincytech. Just as individual proteins are the building blocks of all life forms, so too is the seed money that Cincytech provides as building blocks of innovative companies that it funds.

Original Sketch:

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This is the sketch that I sent to Cincytech for the original pitch of the project. It details both my execution strategy for the project and the design of the installation.

Camp Sculpture Park

Shape Grammar of a Pyramidal 

Funded by the DAAP School of Art

This installation was a collaboration with photographer and digital media artist Megan Ward. It began as a series of studies exploring shape grammar with pyramidals (Below). 1/4" rods were then cut to size and welded using a crude, wooden jig (Above). We then created a site specific installation at The Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park using the individual pyramids.

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Shape Grammar: The principle of architectural design that involves repeating a shape in 2 or 3 planes to create new surfaces and objects. 

Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park

Shape Grammar of a Pyramidal 

Collaboration with Megan Ward

This installation was a collaboration with photographer and digital media artist Megan Ward. It began as a series of studies exploring shape grammar with pyramidals (Below). 1/4" rods were then cut to size and welded using a crude, wooden jig (Above). We then created a site specific installation at The Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park using the individual pyramids.

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Shape Grammar: The principle of architectural design that involves repeating a shape in 2 or 3 planes to create new surfaces and objects. 

The

Problem

How do we build a site specific installation without having exact measurements of the site. And how can we transport a 6ft sculpture without renting a truck?

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The

Solution

Creating a modular sculpture that could be transported and assembled quickly and easily by a team of two.

Study for Final Sculpture

Before embarking on this project. A small scale study for the final sculpture was designed and constructed. 

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The rods were braised and finished with a coat of Rustoleum metal primer/paint combo.

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This study serves as a materials test and a mockup used in the pitch of the final installation.