The observer is left mesmerised by the hypnotic and trance-like movement of the Stingray, while the Tornado is a metaphor for time; cyclic and yet, ever moving. This is not an excerpt from a commentary on one of Yeats’ mystical poems, but an appreciation of two kinetic art sculptures by Apical Reform created in collaboration with MB&F M.A.D.Gallery.
The objective of the collaboration was to create two limited-edition kinetic art pieces that employ mechanical movement to create aesthetic beauty. Titled “Tornado” and “Stingray,” the two pay tribute to the pioneering spirit of the MB&F M.A.D.Gallery. A third piece entitled “Schermo” pays homage to the mechanical prowess of supercars and focuses on the play between light and movement. The artworks will be launched during Dubai Design Week and will be on display from November 12 to December 30, 2018, at Apical Reform’s AR Gallery in Dubai Design District (D3), as well as at MB&F M.A.D.Gallery in Dubai Mall.
Apical Reform, founded in 2011 by Amrish Patel, “is a collaborative design studio dedicated to creating immersive experiences led by art and innovation in production technology.” In just a few years, the studio has found a definitive creative voice, designing everything from collectable furniture and interior design to bespoke design-art pieces.
The Stingray is the result of a synergy between art, mathematics, mechanics and electronics. Inspired by the rhythmic wavy movement of a stingray’s wings, this abstract kinetic sculpture pays reverence to one of the most graceful movers of the deep blue sea by accenting each gesture and movement in slow motion. The reflective finish adds to the aesthetic. Stingray has a reflective finish over charcoal grey and rose gold colour. It is available in 8 limited-edition pieces.
The Tornado mimics the power as well as the rhythmic rise and fall of one of nature’s most beautiful natural phenomena. The fluidity of a whirlpool is brought to life through precise design and engineering; through the precise geometric positioning of circular metal rings that are axially linked and set in motion to create a seemingly endless current. This distinct and impactful work of kinetic art is the centrepiece of the first collaboration between Apical Reform and MB&F M.A.D.Gallery. Tornado is made with 88 mirror-finish stainless steel pieces with a black gloss finish; only 88 examples of which will be produced.
The distinct form of the Ferrari GTO 250, Aston Martin DB5 and Lamborghini Miura, inspire the Schermo. The static artwork appears dynamic as it responds to the movement of light, resulting in a surprising interplay of perception, depth and dimension, which leaves the onlooker surprised and captivated. The illusion is created with the use of precise perforations on a metallic plane.
“The MB&F M.A.D. Gallery prides itself on being a haven for kinetic art and offering a captivating universe where mechanical masterpieces reign supreme. We are very pleased to welcome Apical Reform into our world and excited to showcase their pieces, which have not only been created exclusively for our Dubai gallery but also seamlessly fuse technical expertise with artistic flair.”- Maximilian Büsser, Founder and Curator of MB&F M.A.D.Gallery
“Since childhood, I have been fascinated by moving objects, and that fascination grew into an appreciation of horology and kinetic design. MB&F M.A.D.Gallery is a pioneering gallery within the kinetic world, and we are thrilled to be working with them. I have admired them from afar and to get an insight into the mastery of their futuristic artworks, that are still deeply rooted in traditional craftsmanship, is both eye-opening and a childhood dream come true,” said Amrish Patel, Founder and Principal, Apical Reform.
