Sometimes it is just the shocking unlikelihood of the juxtaposition that makes an idea work.
Susan says, “This photo shows a wonderful example of how to see ideas with your right brain and reconstruct them with your left brain. In other words: Question: how do you find a tuba in a motorcycle? Answer: when you know where it is hiding. The great thing about this sculpture is that it helps us see both chopper motorcycles and tubas (and trombones and trumpets) differently. From the raked front forks, the shiny tubular engine to the three pearl-topped gears this bad boy is ready to blow. With its headlight, it’s even safe for night time cruising. As you probably know from our previous posts, we are always seeking ways to engage with an audience by making them look more closely, question exactly what they are seeing and working out connections for themselves. This does all three. If the topic and audience is right, this would make a great addition to a presentation.”
Lucia says, “Talk about seeing ideas! How was it that the sculptor looked at a musical instrument and saw a motorcycle? Even though I was looking at the finished piece, my brain had to work extra hard to make the connection. I walked around taking photos of his several sculptures with mixed feelings. I was in awe of what he created, yet a bit horrified to see musical instruments dismantled and distorted to create motorcycles, train engines, airplanes, etc. It created a real push-pull for me. This type of photo could put your audience in turmoil. And there are times you probably do want get them roused. Get them going. Give them a push-pull situation to sort out. Make them think creatively.”