Solar Robotic Sculpture

Heliotropis is a solar powered robotic sculpture made of bronze, kilnformed glass, and custom electronics. This techno-biotic sculpture changes its form and behavior and responds to its environment via sensors that track temperature, light, and seismic activity. Heliotropis creates a visual link between its physical form and the conditions of its immediate environment. This relationship explores the interactions between machine and nature, as well as the interactions between man and nature.

As computers and artificial intelligence proliferate and become woven into all aspects of our human existence, the desire to protect the environment and promote healthy ecologies must also grow. In addition to engaging the public and creating greater awareness about these interests, this sculpture is a visualization of unseen forces and a re-imagining of the natural world.