Phil Price, <em>Tree of life</em>, 2012, carbon and glass fibres, high temperature epoxy, precision bearings, stainless steel, 1000 x 1040 x 1040 cm. Southern Way McClelland Commission 2010. Photo John Gollings.
Phil Price, Tree of life, 2012, carbon and glass fibres, high temperature epoxy, precision bearings, stainless steel, 1000 x 1040 x 1040 cm. Southern Way McClelland Commission 2010. Photo John Gollings.

Phil Price

Phil Price is a New Zealand artist best-known for his large-scale kinetic sculptures inspired by natural environments. He is regarded by many as the foremost kinetic sculptor of his generation. Price has held several positions across the arts, including composite engineer, educator, technical assistant and Production Manager for Neil Dawson Sculpture, before commencing his own studio practice in 2000. Inspired by the work of American artist George Rickey, Price began making kinetic works as early as 1995; a progression from his playful aerodynamic plastic forms of the late 1980s, which created movement and speed using motor driven forms. Since 2000, Price has focused on wind-activated, kinetic sculpture, creating works aerodynamic works propelled by the momentum of air currents and animated by the interplay of various aerofoil components. Price’s innovative use of carbon fibre composite to ensure both aesthetic form and kinetic functionality is unique in his field. In addition to their innovative design and sophisticated engineering, Price’s works are renowned for their beauty and evocation of the natural world.