Column of Four Squares Excentric Gyratory III, Var. II 1990

George Rickey made this kinetic sculpture, "Column of Four Squares Excentric Gyratory III, Var. II," from stainless steel. The highly polished surfaces of the squares catch the light, reflecting the surrounding environment and creating a dynamic interplay of light and shadow as they move. Rickey was fascinated by the element of chance. The squares are precisely balanced on bearings so the slightest breeze will set them in motion. This gives the sculpture an organic quality, as if it were a living thing responding to its environment. Rickey carefully engineered his sculptures to create this seemingly effortless movement. This reflects his background in both art and engineering. The industrial material of stainless steel also plays a key role. It is not a traditional art material, but its strength and resistance to corrosion make it ideal for outdoor sculpture. Rickey embraced this new aesthetic, creating works that blur the lines between art, engineering, and design. By doing so, he also challenged conventional ideas about art.