Bruce Campbell: Mechanical Universe

Mitchell • Giddings Fine Arts presents Mechanical Universe, a solo exhibit of magical, hand-operated kinetic sculptures by artist Bruce Campbell. Opening is 5:00 p.m. on Brattleboro’s Gallery Walk Friday, July 5; Artist Reception Saturday, July 13, 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. Artist Talk Saturday, July 27, 5:00 p.m.

Campbell received his college degree in graphic design and printmaking, and soon found himself designing books, catalogs and manuscripts. For thirty years his clients included The Metropolitan Museum of Art, National Gallery of Art and The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston. His own world changed dramatically in 1976 upon viewing an Alexander Calder retrospective at the Whitney Museum: his pen and pencil calligraphy became three-dimensional studies in wire and coat-hangers.

Campbell’s kinetic creations feature precisely formed, elegant brass and stainless steel, gears, levers – all anchored on a wood base, and a hand operated crank to set the sculpture in motion and engage his audience. Says the artist, “My sculptures attempt to illustrate, in the simplest way possible, events and conditions of the natural world. I am trying to represent my own understanding of these wonders while making these concepts both functional and intriguing. These sculptures therefore demonstrate, in minimalist and transparent form, my perception of the universe – how the universe might be visualized if moved by gears, levers, and basic mechanics.”