The Tide Machine is a transportable, self-contained, tide powered, kinetic performance art platform which is designed to be installed in tidal docks, marinas or wharves. The purpose of The Tide Machine is to demonstrate, celebrate and focus attention on the phenomenon and importance of the tidal system through live physical performance and continuous-mechanical, kinetic sculpture.

Here be cinematic reproductions of two Tide Machine events in 2010 and 2011, please click to observe:

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Live Performance - to celebrate and illuminate the tidal phenomenon as part of the natural world, live performances emanating from the stage area of the tide machine are regulated and inspired by the rhythms of the tides themselves. They combine the mechanical with the animate in a series of specifically designed pieces, choreographed and performed by Alex Rigg with Oceanallover, which explore the tension between humanity and nature. They are exuberant, dynamic events full of music, dance and visual wonder. The Tide Machine also offers an irresistible opportunity to present educational sessions. Its kinetic mechanisms can be used to demonstrate the possible effects of environmental change on the tidal system. An nvitation is extended to schools and community groups to take part in a program of informative environmentally oriented sessions leading to events generated by those taking part. The Tide Machine is an open-stage, a soapbox and a focus for local community groups to present their experience.

 

 

Continuous-Mechanical - an integral mechanism in the platform can harness and store the potential energy drawn from tidal movement, providing a power source for a range of kinetic displays, simultaneously: informative, visually extraordinary and beautiful. A simple Orrery demonstrates the relationship which controls the tidal system; the positions of the sun, earth, moon and the ecliptic. A mechanical tide-timetable can generate a series of displays showing tidal heights, ranges and current position in the cycle; the tide-table will also record and compare actual data from site to site and against predictions. Visual/mechanised displays based on watermill and fairground technology demonstrating the potential power of the tides could include a revolving stage, opening compartments, lifting arms etc. The Tide Machine can be re-calibrated and installed at any suitable location within the period of one lunar/tidal cycle with the performance, educational, and mechanical climaxes timed to coincide with the highest tides in the cycle. It will be fully transportable and available for maritime festivals, arts festivals and educational programs. The platform will incorporate solar panels and wind generators to gather whatever electrical energy is needed to power video links, public address etc.

 

 

The Tide Machine is funded and supported by SAC, Conflux, DGAA, Crichton Development Company,Port of Dumfries Group, Roy Kerr and many others to whom: thank you all!!

Lead Artists on the Project are Mark Zygadlo and Alex Rigg

The Live side of things will be designed and presented by Oceanallover

while many collaborating artists, people and communities will excite and inspire through

tidal explorations!

Please contact us for further information at any of the addresses below:-

colin tennant photography