Suspended in a science atrium, this twisting steel form evokes quantum entanglement and wave patterns, merging scientific inspiration with 3D-printed craftsmanship and shifting color.
“Entanglement explores the idea that a shape can be defined by space rather than mass. There is much more space in this sculpture than steel. It also asks: How does perception define the experience of space? If you look at this sculpture from only one point of view, it might be difficult to understand, you have to move around it to experience it fully. As your point of view changes and the light changes, the shape itself changes. These concerns flow through all of my work.”
ABOUT THE ART WORK
Entanglement is the first permanent work of art installed in a Skidmore College building (NY). Designed by acclaimed artist Alyson Shotz and 3D printed by MX3D, the site-specific sculpture is suspended in the atrium of the Billie Tisch Center for Integrated Sciences (BTCIS).
The 340 kg structure twists through space like a giant knot or Möbius strip, guiding the eye in continuous motion along its flowing curves. As viewers move beneath it, the painted steel shimmers, shifting in color from gold to green to blue.
More information about Alyson Shotz and her other works: alysonshotz.com
“Skidmore gave me a chance to make something new, experiment with new technology together with MX3D, and broaden my practice as an artist,” Shotz said. “It’s a huge opportunity, and I’m incredibly grateful for that. “
THE VISION BEHIND
Created with MX3D’s robotic metal 3D printing process, the work demonstrates the possibilities of precision, speed, and zero-waste production—enabling Shotz to explore forms that would be impossible through traditional fabrication.
At its core, Entanglement reflects Shotz’s ongoing interest in perception, space, and transformation. The sculpture changes with light and perspective, asking viewers to experience it from multiple angles as shape and space dissolve into one another.
Entanglement is part of Alyson Shotz’s broader artistic practice, which examines how perception defines our experience of form and space.
