The MB&F M.A.D.Gallery in Geneva is a place not to be missed for mechanics enthusiasts. Supported by fine watchmaker MB&F, you will find the complete range of MB&F Horological Machines and other carefully-curated art pieces, or what they call Mechanical Art Devices. One of the current exhibitions is «Perpetual Transience», a small collection of mechanical sculptures by Jennifer Townley.
A native of the Netherlands, Townley has been captivated by geometric shapes ever since childhood. Her interest led her to discover the works of fellow Dutchman, M. C. Escher, one of the best graphic artists in the world. His “impossible” sketches and repetitive patterns inspired her to explore the geometric side of art.
All of Townley’s pieces in this exhibition are silent, moving sculptures that transport viewers into a peaceful state of mind. Take “Squares”, for example, the gear wheels moves the thinly carved wooden grids, creating a medley of geometrical shapes that slowly appear, disappear and reappear. “Lift” features a ballet of sprockets, plunging and climbing along thin metal chains in a graceful, sweeping flow of mechanical energy. Some of the movements of the sculptures are somewhat unpredictable, while some of them reminding viewers vaguely of mechanical watch movements.
