John Douglas Powers

I saw the work of John Douglas Powers in a recently opened group show at La Esquina space here in Kansas City. The piece in the show titled "Field of Reeds" is an automated mechanical sculpture that resembles wind moving over a field of grass. The experience of the piece is strange - it manages to mesmerize with its sounds and graceful movement but the next moment you're back to the realization that it's just a machine. Check out John's other work on his web site: such as wooden "hands" typing out endless zen poetry and other poignant pieces. Everything moves, beautiful words are being written, things seem to be full of meaning. Until the plug is pulled.

Elysium from john douglas powers on Vimeo.