Bearings

Evolving Excellence in Bearing Design for My Sculptures

Throughout the majority of my career, I relied on off-the-shelf bearings to meet the needs of my customers and their sculptures. I’m proud to say that many pieces crafted between 1998 and 2008 continue to operate smoothly to this day, a testament to the quality of those bearings. The key to their longevity? Sufficient wind to keep the bearings in motion and clear of debris.

However, sourcing top-quality bearings has occasionally presented challenges. During the pandemic, with a slower pace of work, I seized the opportunity to innovate. I dedicated this time to meticulously designing individual bearings for each sculpture. This sometimes meant investing significantly in custom sizes to ensure the perfect fit. Today, all the bearings I use are tailor-made, featuring ceramic balls and specialized lubricants crafted for optimal performance.

Why Consider Upgrading Your Sculpture’s Bearings?

There are several reasons you might want to update the bearings in your sculpture:

  1. Enhanced Design: In my early works, I often used a single bearing for certain elements. With experience, I discovered the benefits of using two bearings for improved stability and longevity. I’m now able to provide parts to upgrade sculptures from as far back as 20 years, enhancing their functionality and durability.
  2. Custom Fit: Each sculpture is unique, and so are its bearing requirements. The custom-made bearings ensure a perfect fit and seamless operation, tailored specifically to each piece.

If you’re considering bearing replacement or an upgrade for your sculpture, here’s what you need to do:

  • Send Photos: Please provide photographs of your sculpture. This will help me identify the specific model and understand its current bearing setup.
  • Installation Assistance: You’ll need someone with the skills to handle the replacement process. If you’re not comfortable doing it yourself, it might be worth enlisting the help of a friend, neighbor, niece, or nephew.

With these upgrades, your sculpture will continue to captivate and inspire with its graceful movements for many years.