James Powers

F__

Winslow Smith’s SpinDrome/The Rotor is inspired by The Rotor, an early amusement park ride designed by Wernher von Hoffmeister. The ride first appeared at Oktoberfest 1949 (it was briefly considered at NASA for high G-training).

The Rotor
was elegant. It created a gentle simulation of weightlessness. The floor was slowly lowered as the fairgoer remained stationary – pinned to the outside wall for almost two minutes. Riders eagerly awaited their turn in "the galleries" above The Rotor. The more seasoned riders performed tricks during the spin – contorting themselves into various shapes against the wall.

The prequel to The Rotor was the Joy Wheel – a pre-electric circular dance-floor spun by the able bodies of onlookers. This was a bawdy and spectacular affair of petticoats, bowler hats and skirts flying in the breeze.

Winslow also presents a new video sculpture, Joy Wheel, about spinning.

The Rotor/Spindrome, 2015

Solar, steel, motor, 200w incandescent light, rugs and Formica

The Rotor/Spindrome, 2015

Solar, steel, motor, 200w incandescent light, rugs and Formica

Joy Wheel, 2016

Steel tripod, Nexus Tablets, drywall, and sandbag

Joy Wheel, 2016

Steel tripod, Nexus Tablets, drywall, and sandbag

Joy Wheel, 2016

Steel tripod, Nexus Tablets, drywall, and sandbag

Joy Wheel, 2016

Steel tripod, Nexus Tablets, drywall, and sandbag