Mechanical Horn Centaur Beetle, 2015. 100 x 100 x 150 cm. Jati Wood, Pine Wood, Electric Dynamo.
Indonesian artist Dedy Shofianto creates unusual kinetic sculptures of insect-like creatures by carving almost every component from wood. Though powered by hidden electronics it’s the exquisitely detailed mandibles, wings, antennae, and gears of these hybrid creatures crafted from locally sourced jati (teak) wood that take center stage. It would seem that a lifetime of wood craftsmanship would have been brought to bear on each piece, all the more impressive considering Shofianto created these pieces when he was only 24 years old while still in school—he graduated from the Art Institute of Indonesia just last year.
The Power of Kumbang Tanduk. 120 x 120 x 120 cm. Mindi and Acacia Wood, 2014.
Photo © Tirana House.
You can see much more of Dedy Shofianto’s work here. Via Colossal Art.
These are great! Beetles can be pretty massive and heavy (some might say clumsy) insects, and this artwork makes that aspect also look graceful and elegant (not that beetles aren’t elegant in the first place).
I’m just crazy about that mostly black Atlas beetle (2nd pic). So beautiful, and I love the wing detail.