While the definition explains the practical notion, it doesn’t emphasize the hypnotic capabilities of the artform.

So where did kinetic sculpture get its start?

Instead, Op Art is used to describe kinetic art that relies on perceivable movement through optical illusion.

what is kinetic art

At either end of the kinetic spectrum, mathematic principles are paramount to the success of the art.

After an explosion in the 1960s, artists working in the field continue to push boundaries.

Get ready for a crash course in the development of kinetic art.

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Naum Gabo. “Standing Wave.”

Many consider Duchamp’sBicycle Wheelthe first piece of kinetic sculpture due to its spinning wheel.

Alexandre Calder began making his mobiles in the 1930s.

His work first used motorized or hand-cranked mechanisms, but then evolved to rely only on air for movement.

marcel duchamp kinetic sculpture

Marcel Duchamp. “Bicycle Wheel.” Image viaGagosian.

Kinetic sculpture enjoys continued success, frequently used in large-scale public installations.

READ MORE:Giant Moving Head Steel Sculpture.

READ MORE:Gorgeous Kinetic Rain Installation in Singapore.

alexander calder kinetic art

Alexander Calder

Some artists use natural elementslike windto propel motion in the sculptures…

Anthony Howe.

READ MORE:Kinetic Sculptures Flow Organically with the Wind.

READ MORE:Buildings Wind-Driven Kinetic Facade.

bridget riley op art

Bridget Riley. “Blaze.”

While other artists use mechanical parts or computer programs to force movement.

READ MORE:Ornate Kinetic Sculpture Fluidly Mimics a Hummingbirds Flight.

As kinetic sculpture continues to evolve, artists are always innovating what the artform means.

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David Cerny. “K on Sun.” READ MORE:Giant Moving Head Steel Sculpture.

This LED chandelier in St. Petersburg is meant to mimic a jellyfish.

kinetic sculpture

ART+COM. “Kinetic Rain.” READ MORE:Gorgeous Kinetic Rain Installation in Singapore.

Anthony Howe Kinetic Sculpture

Anthony Howe. READ MORE:Kinetic Sculptures Flow Organically with the Wind.

wind powered sculpture

Charles Sowers. “Windswept.” READ MORE:Building’s Wind-Driven Kinetic Facade.

jennifer townley kinetic sculpture

Jennifer Townley. “Asinas.”

kinetic sculpture

Ryan Kvande. “Flow.”

kinetic art

Bob Potts.

kinetic sculpture by derek hugger

Derek Hugger. “Colibri.” READ MORE:Ornate Kinetic Sculpture Fluidly Mimics a Hummingbird’s Flight.

kinetic light art

Chandelier Atlantic Star