4 Squares in a Square
George Rickey is mostly known for his metal kinetic sculptures which incorporate elements of art with engineering and mechanics.
Four Squares in a Square reflects Rickey’s interest in movement and its relation to weight and balance. Like much of his other work, Four Squares in a Square consists of simplified geometric shapes that are carefully arranged in a manner that determines the speed and movement of the sculpture.
The squares are calibrated with weights and balances which determine how and when the piece moves based on the air currents surrounding the sculpture. Therefore, the surrounding environment is just as crucial to the work as the materials used to create it. Not only does Four Squares in a Square require the air currents to generate movement, but the stainless steel was specifically chosen to reflect the sunlight, resulting in the lights moving as the squares turn.
The sculpture was purchased by York University in 1971.