The Cyclenauts at Kensignton Kinetic Sculpture Derby and EXCHANGE exhibition

Resident artist Michael Konrad and alumni artist Jim Garvey teamed up with youth from Neighborhood Bike Works in Philadelphia to design and build a rideable "flying saucer" sculpture for the 2012 Kensington Kinetic Sculpture Derby. The kids, dubbing themselves "The Cyclenauts," participated in all stages of the project from concept, design, construction, welding, costumes, decoration, and finally riding in the parade, where we won the Judge's Choice Award!

An installation including the flying saucer sculpture, the spacesuit costumes, and the above video documentary was presented at 40th Street AIRspace for Exchange, an exhibition highlighting the completed community outreach projects from the outgoing 40th Street residents.

The Cyclenauts installation at the Exchange exhibition.

UNOCCUPIED reviewed by The Art Blog

UNOCCUPIED has received a nice review from The Art Blog:

At Fortieth Street AIR, which is always engaged with Philadelphia artists, the gallery this month, is graced by work from current resident-artist Michael Konrad. He is continuing his exploration of survival in the decaying urban ecosystem with an installation built around a tent and pennant festoons all made from recycled umbrella canopies. This is where dead umbrellas go to die!

Read the complete article here: West Philadelphia looking is good

The exhibition is on view until March 30 at AIRspace Gallery (4007 Chestnut Street).

Michael Konrad UNOCCUPIED currently at AIRspace

Reign Free, 2012 by Michael Konrad
(tent made from reconstructed umbrella canopies)
click here for additional images of the exhibition

UNOCCUPIED, a solo exhibition of new sculpture, photography and installation is now on view at 40th Street AIRspace through March 30.

Thanks to everyone who came out to the opening! 

If you didn't make it, the gallery hours are every Friday in March from 3-7pm.

Alternatively, you may view the exhibition by appointment (call 917-318-0380).