Meet maker Brad Litwin, kinetic sculptor
What do you make?
I make Kinetic Sculpture, especially complex mechanical pieces with gears, linkages, etc. I have a line of small, production pieces, mostly made of paper and wood, that I make and sell on a full time basis, called MechaniCards®.
Who do you make it for?
My audience consists of anyone who enjoys observing, and interacting with moving objects.
Where are you located?
My studio is located at 4732 Stenton Avenue, in the Germantown section of Philadelphia, PA.
When did you start making?
I’ve been making art of one kind or another my entire life. I started making kinetic sculptures when I was about 14 years old.
How long have you been making?
More than 50 years.
What inspired you to make kinetic sculptures?
Like most anyone, and most any animal for that matter, I am fascinated by objects in motion. I’m especially intrigued by the effects on perception that various kinds of movement evoke, including the curvature of light, and the persistence of vision.
What makers inspire you?
Bernie Lubell, Chris Fitch, Arthur Ganson, Marcel DuChamp, and Roland Emmett are all artist/makers of kinetic sculpture whom I admire.
What’s next?
I’m currently working on the design of a large installation piece that will cover a 30 foot long wall, and produce algorithmic musical compositions.
See more examples of Brad’s work and videos at www.BradLitwin.com, www.MechaniCards.com, www.MechaniKits.com, and www.YouTube.com/blitwin.
Meet the Philly makers
Day Cycle Clock
The Day Cycle Clock, simulates the Philadelphia Skyline at the current time, with accurate Moon Phases, Sunrise and Sunset times. At Maker Faire, you'll be able to control the inputs and watch the display change in real time.
East Falls Glassworks
A team of Glass Artists will show various techniques out of a Mobile Glassblowing furnace, creating all kinds of objects, including drinking vessels to home decor, and demonstrating a variety of other techniques as well as explaining the process!
FOLKFUTURISM! Parade of Spirits, Liberty Lands
"The Parade of Spirits is one of my favorite Philadelphia traditions. It's like being *in* a Miyazaki movie, and that's a wonderful place to be." -- (a Mystery Participant) Make, become, and vanquish monsters. Folkfuturist-friendly.
Temple Formula Racing
Temple Formula Racing is a student professional organization within Temple University's College of Engineering that uses hands-on automotive engineering skills to fully fund, prototype and assemble a formula racecar that competes internationally.
Meet maker Jerry Clarkin, builder of BattleBot SubZero
Maker Jerry Clarkin, builder of BattleBot – SubZero, and leader of Team Hammertime, took time away from making to answer a few questions about being a maker, competing, and building robots.
What do you make?
I build combat robots.
Who do you make it for?
I build them to compete at engineering competitions such as BattleBots.
Where are you located?
I am located in Malvern, PA.
When did you start making?
I started making fighting robots in the year 2000 and have built 14 robots in the 120-340 lb weight classes. In 2011 I quit building robots and built a custom three wheel car from the ground up. Then in 2016, I got back into making combat robots because I love the competition, machine vs machine.
What inspired you to make a BattleBot?
Back in 2000, we started watching the TV show BattleBots and the guys I work with told me I should enter. They knew I love to build things. It changed my life forever.
What makers inspire you?
Everyone who builds inspires me, I enjoy looking at all kinds of machines and gadgets. They give me ideas, some of which I try to improve. I am also an accomplished inventor. I have had two auto mechanic tools go retail that I designed.
What’s next?
As for whats next? The new design of SubZero is in the works right now. I want to add more armor and a high temperature flame thrower.
Follow Team Hammertime on Facebook, watch SubZero on the premiere of Battlebots Friday, May 11th at 8pm on the Discovery Channel, and come see SubZero live at the Faire!
Calling All Makers in Philadelphia!
Submit your application to exhibit during Philly Maker Faire! We will be filling the Pennovation inside and out with Makers and we need your help. We are looking for a wide variety of exhibitors from all disciplines and skills levels, submit at http://philly.makerfaire.com/call-for-makers/