Make Up Machine

2010

The Make-up Machine was conceived as a theatrical device as opposed to one of practicality. I like to imagine that if Heath Robinson had been in charge of the props department on a Peter Greenaway directed 70's Sci-Fi Period Drama... well... perhaps the outcome would have been something like this. The machine is programmed via an Arduino board to carry out three stages of the making up process: applying foundation, blusher and lip-stick. What form would ritual and spectacle take now the process has been mechanized? When your physical and mental prowess is no longer required, how can the replacement become elevated above the physical actions required to complete the task?
 The installation and film were exhibited at the Barbican Gallery, London in 2010 as part of Ron Arad Restless.

In Collaboration with:

Marguerite Humeau
Gerrit Kasier