As an artificial limb designer and hobbyist robotics engineer, artist Christopher Conte rarely uses blueprints or sketches to craft his elaborate biomechanical sculptures. Instead, the New York-based machinist relies on his imagination. “I just get a vivid idea in my mind of what I want to make and start hunting for the parts. I have a large inventory of antique parts, so I’ll often play with them like Legos and see what comes together.” Inspired by the intricate craftsmanship of turn-of-the-century technology and Japanese bronze work, Conte also turns to obscure sci-fi films for stimulation. “I’ll see something in a movie and think, ‘Wouldn’t it be cool if that existed?’ And then I’ll try to bring them to reality”.
From autonomous killer rovers, to insects, and biomechanical hands, he has dreamed, and created it all. Conte’s work is not commissioned, although he has worked with groups such as the Dutch music group Grendel, who he created a wearable piece for. Regarding the lack of mobility of his seemingly fluid designs, Conte states: “I design my work with the sole purpose of being static art. But I build with the idea that they could move, so each one looks as though they are about to take a step”.
