Strata Thesis, Lab Unit

Title: Strata Thesis, Lab Unit
Year: 2000
Dimensions: 54” wide x 27” high x 34” deep

This curious device represents lab equipment built by two M.I.T. geology students for their joint MA thesis, submitted 1954. Lab Unit, the central piece shown here, has three parts—my first sculptural triptych. It deals with core samples from both geology and people. Displayed on a custom-made table recalling a slate-topped lab “bench”.

I used materials and colors period-correct to the 50s. No phone push-buttons back then, so a rotary dial to enter all data. The whole piece is built of inexpensive pressboard, not even plywood—the students would cut costs anywhere. Its golden finish

I used materials and colors period-correct to the 50s. No phone push-buttons back then, so a rotary dial to enter all data. The whole piece is built of inexpensive pressboard, not even plywood—the students would cut costs anywhere. Its golden finish is a few layers of amber shellac, straight from the can.

The entire Strata Thesis piece is itself a triptych. Flanking the Lab Unit (center) is the Field Unit (left, 2001) and the castle-like Archive Unit (right, 2002).

The entire Strata Thesis piece is itself a triptych. Flanking the Lab Unit (center) is the Field Unit (left, 2001) and the castle-like Archive Unit (right, 2002).

With its articulated arm, Field Unit (2001) recalls a Mars rover, gathering samples and memories to be sent back and analyzed by Lab Unit. Insights gained about life are then stored in Archive Unit .

With its articulated arm, Field Unit (2001) recalls a Mars rover, gathering samples and memories to be sent back and analyzed by Lab Unit. Insights gained about life are then stored in Archive Unit.

Sketch exploring designs for the crucial X/Y axis; its floating magnets can be moved about like an old-fashioned telephone exchange, setting fresh parameters for each experiment.

Sketch exploring designs for the crucial X/Y axis; its floating magnets can be moved about like an old-fashioned telephone exchange, setting fresh parameters for each experiment.