Tom Shannon

Tom Shannon is an artist and inventor whose work explores the intersection of science, natural forces, and human perception. His concept-driven sculptures and paintings investigate ideas such as magnetism, gravity, and balance, translating complex phenomena into physical, experiential forms.

Dancer is a captivating sculpture at the Shanghai Science and Technology Museum fabricated at our Quidong workshop. It is made up of four elliptical spheres crafted from polished stainless steel, interconnected by solid shafts. When the bottom sphere is pushed, the entire sculpture sways gently.

“The creation of Dancer requires a delicate balance of art, the popularisation of science and technology, drawing on various disciplines such as mechanics and structural engineering.”- Hong Binkai, UAP Associate

The proportions of the sculpture incorporate two important irrational numbers: pi (π) and phi (ϕ). These numbers are universal in nature and contribute to the fundamental structure and spontaneous aesthetics of the universe. The height of the central cross-section of the sculptured ellipse is variable, while its width is ϕ (approximately 1.618) times that of the ellipse. Additionally, the length of the elliptical shape is π (approximately 3.1416) times its width, both of which stem from the mathematical relationship between π and the golden ratio. The decimal expansions of π and ϕ are infinite, symbolising the concepts of infinity and exploration of the unknown. In Dancer, these two proportions are skillfully intertwined, creating a geometric artistic expression that is both visually captivating and thought-provoking.

This movement provides a smooth and dynamic visual experience, designed to engage an interactive audience. As participants push the large device, they explore shifting feelings and balance within the physical world. The slow, graceful motions mirror the rhythm of dancers in choreography.

This artwork features elliptical forms reminiscent of seeds and cactus leaves, alongside the streamlined shapes of fish and birds. At its core, the artwork delves into themes of gravity, balance, and stability, inviting viewers to engage with the mysteries of the physical world through both visual appeal and interactive participation.