Colibri

Containing over 400 precisely machined gears, screws, and aesthetic elements, Derek Hugger’s latest kinetic sculpture Colibri mimics the motion of a hummingbird in flight. Though the motions of flying are unmistakable, the piece has much more in common with a clock than a bird.

Every element of motion has been completely mechanized, from the beating wings to the flaring tail. Intricate systems of linkages and cams bring the sculpture to life with a continuous flow of meticulously timed articulations. As each mechanism has been linked to the next, Colibri cycles through its complete range of motions by the simple turn of a crank.

Colibri’s motions are unlike those of any other wooden sculpture. Every movement has been carefully optimized to be as life-like as possible. As Colibri hovers and flies, the smooth motions of its wings, tail, head, and body work together seamlessly to produce a beautiful and captivating visual sequence.