Piano Cat
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Kinetic Sculpture |
SLA 3D Printing & Arduino
Media: Stereolithography, Acrylic Paint, Arduino
Programs: Nomad, Arduino
Size: 200 mm W × 400 mm D × 300 mm H
Date: April 2024
Abstract
Piano Cat is a kinetic sculpture that can stretch, powered by Arduino motors. Unlike the freedom I find in making art, so much in my life is judged against strict criteria. I find myself drawn to things like cats that stretch only on their own terms, and music, which draws its power not from measuring up to rigid standards, but unrestrained expression. It is also a tribute to my beloved cat MaoMao.
Story
My connection to the piano has always been elusive. In the moments when I practice with an intention of meeting expectations, I feel only frustrated, distant from the music and its emotion. However, when I let go of all intentions – when I simply played to enjoy the music itself – the melodies felt alive, playful, and as fleeting as the wind.Maomao seemed to understand it better than I. He never came when I called, but always arrived on his own terms. Sometimes, he would curl up beside me. Other times, he would sit on my desk, stretching as if he carried no burden at all. I wanted to bring that same spirit into my music and art: unforced, and alive.
Process
I first sculpted him in Nomad: a cat carrying a piano on its back, not as a burden but as wings, ready to lift him at any moment. After printing it out in 3D, I hand-painted the finish with acrylic – black to resemble the piano, and a glossy finish to symbolize the freedom of music. To bring him to life, I programmed an Arduino with servo motors, giving it the ability to stretch whenever and wherever. These subtle, unpredictable motions bring the static sculpture to life, embodying MaoMao’s nonchalance and spirit that I will cherish forever.