Created by Stamps student, Hilliary Butterworth, Drawing Machine creates mandalas based on the presence of two participants. Stand in front of one of the pedestals beside the machine. When the sensor detects a person, one wheel will begin turning. A person standing in front of the pedestal on the other side of the machine will activate the second sensor, turning the opposite wheel. With only one wheel turning, the machine draws a simple ellipse, but when both wheels are turning, the machine creates unexpected patterns and shapes. When you are both satisfied with the drawing, step aside and tear it from the pad. The drawing is yours to take with you.

I created Drawing Machine to encourage interaction between people in a gallery setting. The machine does all the work, allowing participants to enjoy the process of creation, as the arms glide mesmerizingly across the page.

Music from Brian Eno’s Making Space

About The Artist

More about Hillary Butterworth (BFA ‘15)