As the new year rapidly approaches, I am reflecting on the accomplishments of 2019 and thinking about projects in 2020. I left several projects unfinished like the honey bee model or creating the six player ant walking game. I find myself more interested in a residency or a grant to support my work and build an audience.

Earlier this month I presented in Washington for the Art and Science Salon at The University of Puget Sound. I had the opportunity to present my work from graduation to present and also give an overview of the skillsets I have practiced. Upon reflection, I realize I have juggled a lot of different skills, becoming a jack of all trades in the maker world. My experience with video is very helpful, and 3D modeling offers a new slew of opportunities.

I also noted a lot of other people’s work that I have read about over the years. This work from researchers and companies experimenting with robotics, is inspiring. It is cool to see that a company like Festo has created a swarm of robotic ants and butterflies. Also, it is wonderful to observe the art forms of Jizai Okimono produced by Haruo Mitsuta. I also made sure to note that pollinators are at risk and I hope my work creates some environmental awareness.

For fun, I have been hacking some ornithopter parts from the MetaFly Kickstarter I supported. I can replace the wings with those of my own design, but I want to create a mechanical resonance structure which amplifies the wing stroke and demonstrates the effects of near 180º rotation. I believe it will have higher thrust, and I also believe it will create a similar paddle motion to real insects. I should be able to observe this using slow motion video or a variable frequency strobe light.

I have also created a set of butterfly wings completely with wood and paper that does not need a 3D printed foundation. By soaking and bending bass wood in water. I can create nearly perfect curves for the veins. Glues and glazes bring out the translucency of the thin paper in the wing and add stability to the wing structure. These wings are an inviting canvas for art designs. I heard about an art technique called flocking, which I think could be a neat way to add scales to the wings, but most flocking material is tiny fibers. Ideally I would find or produce tiny scales.

If you’re reading this and have any thoughts on residencies or galleries I should connect with, please let me know. I have been searching for art and science programs, biology and art programs, or grants for interactive art work. I am definitely happy to create and donate work to galleries and museums in exchange for community and work space resources. I seek to learn and share, creating ever more complex and interesting pieces.