The Mechanations of John Peralta

American artist John Peralta  dismantles vintage machines and instruments to create elaborate three dimensional pieces, revealing the hidden complexity and beauty of modern engineering. John is a self-taught artist and calls his work  “Mechanations Series” , which explores the technical aspects of antique and modern technology, along with the emotional components that tell their stories. 

His thoughtful exhibition of a device’s inner working serves as a historical excavation of sorts, unearthing curiosity and the past while exploring memories which are locked within. Each piece is a meticulous and poignant reminder that inside every artificial object is an idea, story and legacy, all hidden in plain sight beneath, waiting to be discovered.

John discusses the origins of his creative calling, which was inspired by a chance encounter far away from home:

“In 2005, while living in Hong Kong, I came across an exploded diagram of a bicycle on the back of a magazine. I was inspired by its fragile beauty, and imagined a three-dimensional version with a real object. Using only a ruler and simple tools, which I still use today, I developed techniques for suspension which expose the inner workings of these humble mechanical objects.”

All images courtesy of John A. Peralta. View more at his home page or visit him on Instagram .