CENTRIFUGAL PIECE
1977
16 feet x 26 feet x 14 feet
Note: This work no longer exists.
"... a large stick contraption with ropes loosely attached to its various ends - the faster the handle turns, the stronger the centrifugal force shaping the plastic [sic. bamboo] and ropes into taut forms." - Blue Greenberg, The Herald-Sun, Durham, N.C.
OK Harris Gallery, NYC, 1977.
Centrifugal Piece was one of the largest interactive pieces made by Norman Tuck. Unfortunately, storage problems led to the dismantling of the piece in the 1990’s.
When the piece is static, bamboo crosspieces hang loosely from ropes tied to the ends of long bamboo spokes. The nature of the piece gradually changes as its speed increases.
The bamboo crosspieces begin to shake chaotically as the sculpture is slowly cranked to life.
As the speed increases the large sculpture gradually grows in size. Centrifugal force and the force of gravity achieve a delicate balance as bamboo becomes propelled high in the air, and floats gracefully above the apex of the piece.
Suddenly, the spinning accumulation of parts becomes a rigid structure as the ropes become taught, pulled hard against the forces that seek to drive the bamboo outward. To the one spinning the piece, the cranking becomes suddenly effortless as the giant structure falls into balance.
Fortunately, Centrifugal Piece was documented by 16mm film (see above) shot at Norman Tuck's 1977 solo exhibition at OK Harris Gallery, NYC.
Centrifugal Piece had been exhibited at:
OK Harris Gallery, NYC. 1977.
Wake Forest University, Gallery, Winston Salem, N.C. 1978
City Gallery of Contemporary Art, Raleigh N.C. 1992