donut machine

The Donut Machine is both a kinetic sculptural object and mark-making device. Using surplus components, aftermarket parts and familiar design references found on domestic gas-powered rotor-tillers, this machine riffs on ideas and activity born from car customization, backyard D.I.Y., and pastime horseplay. Unlike a typical roto-tiller that uses a set of spinning cultivator blades to till soil, the Donut Machine presents a rupture in this usual logic by replacing the spinning cultivator blades with a chain driven rubber tire. In company with a rubber pivot point located at the front end of the machine, the range of movement becomes limited to a circular motion. When activated by the operator at public demonstrations, the Donut Machine facilitates circular mark-marking on asphalt surfaces and a spectacle of sound and smoke.