MASCARA AFRICA
OKUDA SAN MIGUEL
Custom kinetic mechanism for a kaleidoscopic sculpture -integrating light, motion, and geometry to animate Okuda’s signature vision
CLIENT AND CONTEXT
Internationally acclaimed artist Okuda San Miguel commissioned Matter to engineer and fabricate a bespoke kinetic system for the second edition of his sculptural piece Máscara Africana, exhibited at 3 Punts Galeria in Barcelona as part of his solo exhibition Dreaming Awake.
The sculpture continues Okuda’s unmistakable aesthetic—vibrant colours, bold geometry, and symbolic layering—but introduced a new challenge: to create a refined, reliable kinetic mechanism that would animate the mask’s kaleidoscope eyes without disrupting its visual integrity.
CHALLENGES
Build a discreet yet robust motorised mechanism
Enhance visual impact through synchronized light and motion
Upgrade the previous prototype for improved durability and control
SERVICES PROVIDED
Mechanical concept design and prototyping
CNC fabrication of custom aluminium components
Motion system design (motor, pulley, drive belt)
Integration of backlighting (LEDs)
Remote-controlled electronics and wiring
Installation strategy within sculpture interior
PROCESS BREAKDOWN
We began by analysing the prior version of the sculpture’s kinetic system, identifying weaknesses in mechanical alignment and control sensitivity.
A new design was proposed and made in CAD. This serves as fabrication plans and a reference for future editions.
The new mechanism was designed from the ground up, centered around a custom CNC-machined aluminium assembly that provides structural stability while minimizing weight. This core assembly houses:
A rotating disk printed with Okuda’s vibrant graphics
A motor-driven pulley and belt system for smooth, controlled rotation
A matrix of LED backlights that illuminate the graphics through mirrored eye tubes, producing a dynamic kaleidoscopic effect
The entire mechanism was engineered to fit within a compact aluminium frame, bolted seamlessly inside the sculpture’s head without altering its external form.
Prototyping coding and electronics
We began by 3D scanning the original Majestic sculpture using a high-resolution photogrammetry workflow. This process captured the subtle surface qualities and form dynamics with fidelity, creating a solid digital base for further work.
RESULT & IMPACT
The final kinetic sculpture premiered at Dreaming Awake in 2024, drawing attention as a central piece in Okuda’s show at 3 Punts Galeria.
By reimagining and refining the internal mechanics, we delivered a system that:
Enhanced the sculpture’s interactivity and visual intrigue
Reduced mechanical noise and vibration
Improved reliability and installation ease
Preserved the artist’s formal and aesthetic intentions
Fully integrated, invisible system
Remote control functionality
Refined exhibition-ready solution