the BASILISK
CAT: Design to Fabrication
Design: Abstract Machines Studio
Fabrication: Abstract Machines Studio
Technical Design: Nick Tyrer / Tekne Lab
Location: Leeds Beckett University, UK
status: Completed 2016
Taken from concept through to fabrication and installation in just three weeks by a small team of students and staff; the project celebrates the design to production ethos of the Abstract Machines studio. The final construct consists of 1024 unique laser cut panels that are folded and riveted to create each cell. Each cell bears a construction tag to identify its location and assembly order.
Basilisk is the final result of the groups’ work and research into complex fabrication systems and tectonic novelty. The suspended sculpture has dual faces; the outer; a bristly façade of undulating spikes creates a dynamic and reptilian skin. As the scales transform across the surface, from shallow-long to deep-short panels the unique dimensions of each scale becomes apparent. Within the Basilisk is the soft belly, the bold scales are replaced with a gentle diamond tessellation, reinforced with the tectonic rhythm of joining rivets.
All images courtesy of Abstract Machines
Drawings by Tekne Lab
