Bowdoin College Museum of Art

Preview image of work. mirror polished stainless steel, stainless steel balls, neodymium, magnets , Magnetic Force 23717

2012.4

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Magnetic Force

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Artist

Alyson Shotz (1964 - )

Title

Magnetic Force

Creation Date

2011

Century

early 21st century

Dimensions

12 in. x 12 in. x 12 in. (30.48 cm x 30.48 cm x 30.48 cm)

Classification

Sculpture

Creation Place

North America, United States

Medium and Support

mirror polished stainless steel, stainless steel balls, neodymium, magnets

Credit Line

Museum Purchase, Collector's Collaborative

Copyright

This artwork may be under copyright. For further information, please consult the Museum’s Copyright Terms and Conditions.

Accession Number

2012.4

In Magnetic Force, the relationship between the two most perfect geometric shapes, cube and sphere, is defined by magnetic fields. The work is composed of a steel cube that houses magnets, which hold in place groups of various sized metal balls. The spherical balls transverse the edges of the cube, giving the sculpture a sense of solidity and unity, while the mirrored surfaces of the steel cube reflect movement, light, and distinct views on each of the cube’s five exposed sides. As Shotz describes, “I want a sculpture to be constantly changing like a person or the weather.” The mirrored surface makes the light an equal component of the piece and relates the sculpture to its surroundings, as it reflects the viewer and the gallery space to complete the work.

Additional Media

overall, alternate view