06.02 Bicycle Kinetic Sculpture Assignment

Assignment Deliverables

1. Completed kinetic sculpture using repurposed bicycle components

Assignment Overview

Treat the bicycle as a collection of structures, bearings, pivots, wheels, cranks, and other mechanical components that can be cut apart, rearranged, extended, duplicated, and combined into something unexpected. Transform the components into a kinetic sculpture. Treat the bicycle as a source of structures and mechanisms rather than a fixed design to preserve. The work may be stationary, hand-operated, pedal-powered, or otherwise activated.

The final sculpture does not have to be a vehicle or remain rideable, but it must incorporate bicycle components and include kinetic elements, parts that actually move.

Develop an intentional relationship between form, movement, material, and the viewer’s experience. Evidence of cutting, welding, repair, and assembly can remain visible when it contributes to the work. A polished commercial appearance is not required, but unresolved construction should not be confused with an intentional material decision.

Project Requirements

• Incorporate repurposed bicycle components in a meaningful way.
• Include at least one intentional element that actually moves during the activation.
• Demonstrate the metal fabrication and joining processes developed during this project
• Resolve the support, alignment, and clearances needed for the intended movement.
• Address exposed cut edges, loose connections, and hazards
• Present a deliberate surface treatment, which may include cleaned bare metal, retained coatings, or another approved finish.
• Be ready to explain the work’s intent and one significant change made through testing.

If part of the sculpture remains unresolved, still attend critique. Present its actual state, show documented tests, and clearly distinguish functioning elements from proposed ones. Identify the remaining work in the completion record.

Grading Rubric