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mark leary designs - mobiles & other swirlygigs

January 20, 2012
0:49
Mark’s Mobiles @ Milwaukee Art Museum
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I am honored to announce that, beginning in January 2012, a selection of my mobiles will be available at the celebrated Milwaukee Art Museum (http://mam.org/) in their amazing museum store.

When you think of the Brew City, Miltown, Mildoggy, The Mil, or just plain ol’ Milwaukee, do you think of a mecca for the world’s finest art, architecture and education?

If not, you should.

The Milwaukee Art Museum is iconic. It contains 20,000 works of art. Is visited by 300,000+ people a year. Offers some of the nation’s best educational art programs for kids of all ages. And, has been collecting art for over 120 years since its start as Milwaukee’s first art gallery way back in 1888.

The 341,000-square-foot museum is also one of the world’s most progressive architectural wonders and was designed by the likes of Eero Saarinen, David Kahler, and Santiago Calatrava.

I’m so pleased that a handpicked collection of my mobile designs will now be available in this premier destination for art and culture.

The museum’s tagline is “ART LIVES HERE.”

And, now, I’m thrilled to be living (t)here, too.

If you’re in Wisconsin or just have a few minutes to explore their site online, I highly encourage you to spend a day discovering all this marvelous museum located right on the shore of Lake Michigan in downtown Milwaukee has to offer.
December 18, 2011
23:41
Mark Leary Mobiles Featured in World of Interiors, January 2012
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I am honored to announce that one of my all-time favorite mobiles, Red Rover Red Rover, will be featured in the incomparable World of Interiors, January 2012 edition, page 110.
Published by Condé Nast – the same folks who slap together lil’ magazines like Vogue, GQ, Vanity Fair, and Style – World of Interiors is a UK pub described as “the most influential, inspiring and lavishly produced design and decoration magazine money can buy. The integrity of its editorial is matched by the quality of its production and by its ability to bring together the broadest spectrum of houses, art features and product shoots. It is a unique resource for affluent and intelligent individuals who are passionate about the way they live.”
If you ask me, it’s just damn sexy.
And, I am stoked that the World of Interiors’ “Inspiration Editor,” Annabel Freyberg took a liking to my mobiles and chose to shout out across the big blue to showcase Red Rover Red Rover in their first edition of 2012. This is the same mag that did a phenomenal Alexander Calder story in their recent May splash featured on Calder.org itself!
My mobile complements a pictorial editorial (say that 10 times fast) about the Paraná Delta retreat of famed Argentinean designer Roberto Bergero.
Whoa! Hands down one of the coolest pads I’ve ever seen. What’s for dinner, Roberto? I’ll bring the Malbec!
Thanks to Kathryn & Matt @ Hanging Mobile Galler y for helping making this all happen.
And, cheers to all for a magnificent 2012 filled with life, love, laughter and lots of deep breathing.
November 26, 2011
15:13
Now Spinning @ The Original - Permanently!
» ‎ mark leary designs - mobiles & other swirlygigs

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I'm pleased to announce that The Original Dinerant in the heart of downtown Portland, Oregon is now the permanent home to eight of my larger mobiles.

Designed and created for the lollipop circus art exhibition in June, the swirling whirlers were just too perfect of a fit to go anywhere else, so The Original snatched 'em all up! Many of these spinners are one-of-a-kind and were custom made just for this show, so you'll only see them blowing here.

So, next time you're passing through the PDX and have a hankering for ridiculously scrumptious food and art that moves, do your tummy and art-heart a favor and head over 300 SW 6th Avenue.

In addition to its permanent collection, The Original always has fabulous traveling shows with some of the best local and national artists anywhere ... and they serve up a mean martini, too.

Cheers!
October 24, 2011
11:18
New "fresh" Show @ Red Brick Gallery
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fresh through november 15th

it's that time again...

join me, the gallery girls, and a handful of amazing southern california artists at Red Brick Gallery's latest show, fresh.

filled with the funky fun of fantastic florals and fabulous flotsam & jetsam photos, paintings, mobiles and more, this aquatic-themed show is all aces.

as an extra added burst of splish splashin' goodness, check out a selection of my newest mobiles (made over the Paint Ventura weekend) that are now spinning proud throughout the gallery.

so, if you're all about the blues (not the sad ones) and greens (not the envious ones), then you will love everything jen and phyllis have pulled together for this watery wonderland.

be sure to swim on by and say hello!
September 17, 2011
23:14
Paint Ventura ROCKS!!!
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"Ventura-ness-osity," by Jim Martin
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Ahhh yeahhhh!
Paint Ventura (www.paintventura.com) rocked!!!

Thanks to everybody who came out, down, over and up to make this such a super fun weekend!

For me, the trip down was EPIC (as in “wow, who knew Ventura was sooooo far from Bend.” Um, almost everybody ... except ME!).

But, the feeling of running on the beach with the waves crashing, the perma-grin I had from meeting such inspirational and energized people, and the taste of salmon and asparagus and the all-night laughter of Jen and Phyllis – well, it all made up for the drive ... and a LOT more!

And, even though never-ending, the drive itself was gorgeous, too.

Perfect moment: Waking up with a smile on Sunday, a six-mile run on the beach just steps from my hotel, the warmth of a southern Californian sun and sky and on my skin, diving into the ocean for some much-anticipated bodysurfing, breakfast of huevos rancheros, coffee, and the Sunday paper in Santa Paula, and a feeling that ALL was right with the world.

Come on NOW!!!
Moonshines over fiery starlit Hoodoo, snowy plovers, Saturday Cajun brunch with bloody marys, big dogs, soft pastels, bent metal, front-row seats, open doors, and stories galore ... this was something special.

Again please!

Artists that you need to check out ASAP:
- Jen Livia (host, gallery owner, person extraordinaire): [www.liviastudios.com] and [www.redbrickart.com]
- Kim Sawyer (bleep, bleep, bleep): [www.etsy.com] and [www.redbrickart.com]
- Tasia Erickson (magical, spiky, brilliant): [www.redbrickart.com]
- Phyllis Gubins (more, more, more): [www.redbrickart.com] and [www.redbrickart.com]
- Jim Martin (whoa): [www.redbrickart.com]
- David Rivas (you must ask him about process): [www.redbrickart.com] and [rivasart.com]
- James Scolari (an eye!!!): [www.redbrickart.com] and [www.jamesscolari.com]
- Sue Harding (paint genius): http://www.redbrickart.com/sharding.htm
- Colleen Friedman (jewelry master): [www.redbrickart.com]
Suffice it to say, I’ll be back...

And, it was great...

And, Jackson, you rule.
August 15, 2011
16:26
Now Showing @ The Atomic Pop Shop
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"contemplating calder" by kerry beary
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If a time-space teleportation device – cleverly disguised as a couch named “bob” – is loaded with a cargo of garlic granola, bacon air guitars, coconut-flavored treats, and chickns playing Beethoven on their beaks, leaves the gentle, sweet enchanted lands of bantu-bantu at half-past zydeco, what is the likelihood it will arrive in Bend before my latest delivery of EIGHT new smoken token mobiles arrives in Baton Rouge, LA?

It’s a tough conundrum of a question, I know. Indeed, it’s enough to make your heart fulter, your lobe explode, and your gluten go free!

Although I could patiently create a 7-step Hassn proof that explains why the Atomic Pop Shop in Baton Rouge is just about the coolest place on the planet, I’ll simply say Kerry Beary (gallery owner and artist extracoolinaire, [www.etsy.com] ) and her hip retro shop on Government Street in The Capital City are aces.

If you’re in the Baton Rouge area, I highly recommend you drop in and go for a spin in her fun digs and check out some of my new designs including lil’ red hood, jumblaya, blorange, and crazyam.

And, of course, don't forget to stock up on your supply of Tabasco while you're in town, too.
August 09, 2011
19:01
Paint Ventura - Painters, Sculptors, & Mobilists?! Oh MY!
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Paint Ventura ( [paintventura.com] ), southern California’s premiere all-media plein air art event put on by Red Brick Gallery [www.redbrickart.com] , is coming up fast ... and - wait for it, wait for it - I’ll be making the trek south to participate in this super fun three-day event!

Red Brick Gallery has been so good to me, I just couldn’t say no, especially when I was given the opportunity to teach my very first mobile-making workshop... [www.redbrickart.com]

Here’s the scoop:

Friday, Sept. 9th 5-8pm, "Paint Ventura Paint Out and Arty Party." 20 Artists will be creating work at Red Brick Gallery during their kickoff event wine and snacks provided by local restaurants. Yum! And, along with a number of other talented artists, I’ve donated one of my mobiles to be raffled to help Red Brick Gallery raise money for a cool local charity.

Saturday, Sept. 10th 11-5pm, "Paint Ventura" 100+ artists will be creating, selling and teaching workshops along Main St and CA St in downtown Ventura. I’ll be at Red Brick Gallery handcrafting unpainted metal mobiles, butand will have plenty of colorful spinners with me to sell as well. There will be live music, performances and book events at participating locations throughout downtown. The public is encouraged to streak down Main Street with wild abando ... um, oh wait a minute, you are actually invited to watch the artists at work and seek out a new creative side of your own.

Sunday, Sept. 11th, I’m really excited to be offering my first mobile-making workshop ( [paintventura.com] ) from 2-5 p.m. In this three-hour class, students will learn the ins and outs of making Calder-style mobiles. Then, in an effort to keep lawsuits to a minimum, attendees will make their own *foam* mobiles with more finger-friendly tools and materials than high speed drills and jagged metal. Good news is tetanus shots are not required! Spots are limited, like for real, so if you're interested ACT FAST to sign up by contacting Red Brick Gallery @ 805-643-6400. Additionally, WAV (Working Artists Ventura) will be hosting a wine tasting and Studio Tour on the Avenue (another reason why my power tools are being left at home).

So, if you’re in the area, please drop in to experience this art extravaganza and support your local artists who are doing good in the world and, of course, feel free to stop by and say hello to the non-local artist (me), too.

PS – Keep an eye out (but, please be safe about it) for an upcoming announcement of my newest gallery in the spicy Land of the Blessed Tabasco coming soon!
July 12, 2011
11:52
New Show at Red Brick Gallery / Ventura Westside ArtWalk
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Jen Livia and Phyllis Gubins are at it again!

I'm honored to be included in their latest show "Full Bloom" which opens this Thursday, July 14th at Red Brick Gallery (www.RedBrickArt.com).

In addition to my mobiles, they are featuring several new artists including Illona Aguuayo, Tasia Erickson, Debra Hintz, and Gwenlyn Norton as well as their favorites Joe Cibere, Jim Martin, Stephanie Kiker, Kim Sawyer, Theresa Davis, Dan and Sue Harding.

Don't miss their Artist Reception during the all-new Ventura WestSide ArtWalk July 23rd and 24th where they will have several artist demonstrations and live music.

For more on the show, please check their website at Red Brick Gallery (www.RedBrickArt.com) and to see more on the new Westside ArtWalk please click their site at www.WestsideArtWalk.org.
June 06, 2011
15:50
Elroy Artspace Show ... Thank YOU!
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"me outside the original"

The show at The Original went fantastically! If you didn't have a chance to check it out, the LOLLIPOP CIRCUS | A Calderesque Homage show runs through early July. So, if you're in Portland, OR, be sure to drop in and check out all the phenomenal Calder-inspired artwork.

Oh, and the food at The Original Dinerant is insanely good. A Laphroaig martin i?! Complete with a pair of olives stuffed with Smoked Maldon Sea Salt and organic Farmhouse Cheese from Noris Dairy!? What?! What?! I mean, come on NOW!

Plus, Joe of Elroy Artspace fame (the curator) and his wife Dana are just the coolest folks EVER! They did an amazing job organizing an incredible show, not the least of which was hanging up all 12 of my mobiles from some very, very high ceilings!

And, of course, big love to Devin and Shanna for hosting me while I was in town AND the coolest Natalie coming up all the way up from Bend during her finals week to surprise me (so, so, so awesome and best surprise ever) AND my sweet, sweet Dad and Mom coming down from Seattle to give their son a surprise hug AND Kathryn from Hanging Mobile Gallery coming across town with her two boys to say hi, too. So much love and fun all around - so thank you, thank you, thank you!

You can find some pictures from the show here: [www.elroyartspace.com]

And, here are some photos thanks to Natalie and Devin...
May 25, 2011
18:40
wild whimsy at the red brick gallery
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Get ready to don your pith helmet, pull up your khakis, and slap on your hiking boots ... but you can leave your binoculars at home.

That's because when you head on over to the Red Brick Gallery [redbrickart.com)] now through July 11th, you'll be able to get up-close-and-personal with my very own untamed mobile herd.

This is your chance to take an urban safari and watch as these ethereal air beasts effortlessly mingle-spin with a whole gaggle of other great artists at this month's Wild Whimsy show.

Beginning this Thursday and running through July 11th, this show lets you take a walk on the wild side with all things a-n-i-m-a-l!

A good time is guaranteed for all as Phyllis Gubins and Jennifer Livia always put on the fantastic fun.

Get your roar on!
May 20, 2011
10:15
Upcoming Show: Lollipop Circus | a Calderesque Homage, June 2nd
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Please join me and a blast of exceptional artists from PNW and Beyond at The Original Dinerant [www.originaldinerant.com] on June 2nd for the opening reception of Lollipop Circus, a Calderesque Homage.

Presented by Portland's very own Joe Staskerz and Elroy Artspace, a Gallery of Modern Art [www.elroyartspace.com),] the show celebrates the "pervading ingredients of Calder’s oeuvre."

I'm honored to be included in this month-long exhibition and have created a special series of entirely primary-colored mobiles in tribute to the master.

I'm super thrilled to be a part of this shout out to one of the MCM greats and my personal inspiration. Woohoo!

If you're in the Portland area come by and check out the work of all these fantastic artists:
Cheers and happy good times to y'all!
February 01, 2011
11:03
perfectly technicolor in portland
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"the juggler"

I recently was commissioned to create one of my most playful mobiles, the juggler, for a client in Portland, OR.

Living, as I do, in Bend, OR, I'm always excited when I'm lucky enough to share my artwork with other Oregonians.

However, whenever I create this particular mobile, I'm always just a wee bit concerned about how the client will respond to the colors it dishes up. Why?

Because they are super flippin' ridiculously...

B-R-I-G-H-T

When two of three paint colors start with the word SHOCK, you better believe there's going to be some POW Factor going on ... and that can be a real surprise.

Belton Molotow's Shock Blue and Shock Orange team up with Cadmium Yellow to create a grab-you-by-the-eyes, slap-you-upside-the-head and spin-your-brain-around color combination.

That is to say the original colors of this mobile definitely aren't for everybody and it's rare the grown-up room that can hold it's own with such look-at-me-ness.

Until now...

My client sent photos of the installed mobile and, well, simply put: I want to live in their house! It is just that COOL! I'll let the pictures speak for themselves, but I LOVE every little (and big) element in the rooms. Such creativity and character and playfulness combined with such crazy awesome stylings.

Love it and am honored to be spinning in such a space.

Technicolor Yea!
January 13, 2011
15:22
sweet sanctuary
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"white fireleaf"

i hope and trust that this newest of new years is treating you perfectly.
November 13, 2010
23:19
Now Spinning at Morihata in Philadelphia
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I’m honored to be highlighted at Normal 0 false false false EN-US X-NONE X-NONE MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-priority:99; mso-style-qformat:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;} Morihata’s new store in the heart of Philadelphia (www.morihata.com).

Showcasing today’s leading style-forward Japanese designs, Normal 0 false false false EN-US X-NONE X-NONE MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-priority:99; mso-style-qformat:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;} Morihata features the best in traditional and neo-contemporary aesthetics, ideas and innovations from every region of Japan. Normal 0 false false false EN-US X-NONE X-NONE MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-priority:99; mso-style-qformat:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}

Let's be clear on what I mean here... Morihata offers an insanely mind-boggling assortment of the most ridiculously timeless soothing eye candy that is also beyond functional while still deeply rooted in a variety of shifting perspectives and visions of a living cultural dynamic, past and present.

Their award-winning design products are currently showcased at museum shops and art galleries in the U.S., Canada, Europe, South America, and throughout Asia, including The Museum of Modern Art, Metropolitan Museum of Art, Cooper-Hewitt National Design Museum, San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, Museum of Contemporary Art in Chicago, The Isamu Noguchi Museum and The Institute of Contemporary Art in Boston.

I am pleased to be showing a collection of custom-made “trust me” mobiles in black and white at Morihata.

If you’re in the Philadelphia area, please stop in and say hello. I trust you’ll be as amazed as I am with the incredible collection of wonder and invitation Yuka and her whole team have invoked and manifested in their new space. Thanks very much, Yuka, and continued success and brilliance.
May 17, 2010
16:58
am i blue Featured In Lights Out On FX
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"am i blue gets cameo on
FX's new show, Lights Out"

One of my mobiles made it to Hollywood... or, um, New York... or, er, your TV...

Catherine McCormack and Stacy Keach are set to co-star opposite Holt McCallany on FX's upcoming drama series "Lights Out" and now so too is my little mobile, am i blue!

The show's set designer recently commissioned the mobile. Now, I'm just hoping am i blue doesn't get a big ego and think he's better than everybody else.

From everything I've read the series looks like it's going to be pretty stellar - both in star power and storyline.

Here's the storyline:

"Lights Out," from Fox TV Studios and FX Prods., centers on Patrick "Lights" Leary (McCallany), an aging former heavyweight boxing champion who struggles to support his wife (McCormack), a pediatric orthopedic surgeon, and three daughters after his fighting days are over.

Diagnosed with a neurological disorder called pugilistic dementia, he takes a job as a legbreaker, collecting on unpaid gambling debts."

I have to say I was pretty excited to learn that the lead character not only is a legbreaker for the mob (something I've always aspired to), but his last name is also "Leary." Perhaps my other lifelong dreams of being a washed-up heavyweight fighter can come true after all.

I can't wait to see where the mobile (or its stunt double - I sent two just in case one was injured during an action shot) will show up in the series, but if that all-star cast weren't enough, FX can count on at least one loyal fan before the series even begins.

If you want to see if you can spot the mobile you'll have to wait... Lights Out is slated to air beginning in Fall 2010 or early 2011.
May 10, 2010
15:01
Spring Rhapsody - New Show At Red Brick Gallery
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Spring Rhapsody @ Red Brick Gallery

The incomparable duo of Jen Livia and Phyllis Gubins are at it again...

Their latest multi-artist show at Red Brick Gallery opens May 22nd and I'm once again grateful to be included with such fun and talented artists as we celebrate all things springy and natural-y.

I've officially declared May "Mark's Mobile Mania Madness Month" or MMMMM, as I'll have a series of SIX new mobiles spinning in the Red Brick Gallery just in time for the show and I just sent off five new mobiles to Rare Device in San Francisco and I will be releasing an exclusive set of designs with Hanging Mobile Gallery in the upcoming days, too.

If you're in the Ventura area, check out the artist reception from 6-9 pm, meet some cool peeps (humans, not chickens) and enjoy what is sure to be a really fun eve!
May 06, 2010
17:37
Got Scissors? Now Spinning In Downtown San Francisco
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"Alex Talon Hair Studio"
The Challenge:

"The space is my hair studio. So I'm looking for something that will be an eye catcher and conversation starter for my clients. Walls are Red. Windows are huge 10 feet tall... OMG. I love the longer thin pieces in your mobile, trust me; they look like branches and the triangle-type pieces in your black beauty (like leaves) and want it to be about 36 -40 inches tall & 16 inches wide."

The Solution:

"I went with a design that evokes the branch/tree feeling you were looking for without being too literal. It's long and narrow as requested. And, it should be a decent spinner with a fair amount of visual interest, especially as backdropped against those amazing windows and the entire feeling of your studio."

The Reaction:

"I LOVE IT!!! You nailed my vision. I can't wait to see it in color and hanging in place!"

The Anticipation:

"I can't wait to see it finished! Now I'm going to have trouble sleeping! It's like Christmas! I'm vibrating with excitement!"

The Arrival:

"My mobile arrived and I have to say that I've never received such a pretty decorated package. It felt like Christmas and my Birthday all rolled into one. And as I stand back and admire it I have to say that the collaboration was definitely a success! It looks amazing!!

Thank you so much for creating my vision. Just looking at it brings a smile to me & hopefully my clients too. I know that on a hard day that's exactly what I'll need to make it home, at least without stabbing someone with my shears. Just kidding..."

The Reaction:

"It's become the buzz of the studio and everyone has been commenting. All good of-course. It's doing exactly what I wanted!"

Mission Accomplished
April 19, 2010
12:38
Inspiration Featured On Simple Elements
» ‎ mark leary designs - mobiles & other swirlygigs

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Buddy, My Shop Cat

When brilliant jeweler, Cynthia Benson, writes to ask me to share a few words about what inspires my art, how could I refuse?

Especially since like me and my Buddy, she has shop cats, Jack and Wrigley, and a faithful dog, Lily!

Here's how I responded in answer to her deceptively simple question,What inspires you?

I’ve always been fascinated by stuff that moves.

When I settled down in the mountains of Bend, Oregon, where the high desert air is constantly twisting and twirling, I think I finally found the perfect muse to inspire my creativity… and that took shape with mountain biking and mobile making.

As an avid (okay, obsessive) mountain biker, there are few things I dig more than pedaling deep into the mountains on some choice singletrack and watching the world (and my place in it) transform.

In my graduate studies, I explored our relationship to and with place, particularly the place of nature. I’m totally captivated with the way we interact with the places we inhabit and pass through and how – when we “bump into the world” – we create meaning/focus/purpose in our lives.

And, it’s that interaction with nature (usually as I’m zipping down a trail on my bike) that really inspires my designs – wresting form out of pure metal to realize feathers layering on a wing, leaves rustling in the wind, or bubbles rising into the air.

As I see the branches of a tree moving in a breeze, I’m mesmerized. A bird in flight, totally hypnotized. A ripple in the canal behind my house, spellbound.

See, I live by a semi-humorous "little things please little minds" mantra. Keep it simple. Keep it real.

In that vein, I’ve been inspired to keep my “process” as basic and fundamental as possible.

That means all my mobiles are hand cut, shaped, sanded, primed, painted, and assembled one at a time. I don’t use templates, or mass production, and regretfully I don’t employ a team of elves. It's just me in my humble little shop with Buddy the Cat enjoying good tunes and paint fumes while creating fun art.

The resulting creations range from works of peaceful simplicity, featuring repetitive shapes spinning hypnotically on an air current, to whimsical jumbles of bright colors and bouncy motion that vibrate with energy and joy.

In the end, I just feel pretty dang lucky to be able to create art for people to enjoy. That’s pretty cool.

You can learn more about Cynthia and creative spirit at her Simple Elements blog. Cynthia's magnificent work can be seen (and purchased) on Etsy and on Facebook.
March 27, 2010
19:09
SUPERSIZE ME!
» ‎ mark leary designs - mobiles & other swirlygigs

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"one orange one XL"
No, I'm not still on the topic of Del Taco fries, but if I was - mmmm, can you say "steamy hot crinkle cut goodness"!

I'm talkin' one orange one XL - my latest big ol' mobile that's just been installed in a private residence in Overland Park, KS.

The client is a designer and has raucously cool modern digs with a to-die-for collection (yes, I did... I did just say "to die for" and I deserve whatever punishment you can think up - as long as it involves french fries... okay, okay, I'll stop with the fries; my apologies).

At over four feet wide by six feet long, it was a blast creating this gentle giant in a variety of shades of blue and - of course - one of my favorite super sweet shades of burnt orange called Linda's Sunset.

I feel very fortunate to be able to hang high in this eclectically delicious space.

Viva Heartlandia!
March 06, 2010
9:43
Now Spinning at the HangingMobileGallery.com
» ‎ mark leary designs - mobiles & other swirlygigs

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I've got super exciting news... no, I have not figured out how to make a fat-free batch of Del Taco french fries... mmm, french fries... er, um, no, that's not it...

I'm super excited to share that a selection of my mobiles are now spinning large at the web's premier mobile destination, the Hanging Mobile Gallery (www.hangingmobilegallery.com).

Check them out here: http://www.hangingmobilegallery.com/category/artists.mark_leary/

As the world's highest ranked online mobile gallery, I'm in fabulous company with the brilliant likes of Matthew Richards of Ekko Mobiles and Portland's own glass mobilist extraordinaire and Etsy juggernaut Leah Pellegrini.

It's been a blast working with the fabulous team at Hanging Mobile Gallery, and I feel terrifically honored to be among such talented artists on such fantastic site.

Check back soon to see a couple exclusive and highly affordable designs that will spin only in the Hanging Mobile Gallery.

Yea!
February 01, 2010
22:18
what is REALLY going on at the www.themismatchedsock.com?
» ‎ mark leary designs - mobiles & other swirlygigs

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January 31, 2010
15:43
just don't call it a baby mobile
» ‎ mark leary designs - mobiles & other swirlygigs

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Mobile lovers come in all shapes, sizes and ages, but call this lil' guy "baby" and you might be in for trouble... toddler trouble with a capital ummm, er, well, give him a break... he doesn't know his letters yet... but I know for a fact it's a capital T!

I mean, really, check out those tough-guy camo pants and that "take no prisoners" look on his face! See how that cracker trembles in his fearsome grip! Take a look at how he's already thrown his so-called "baby monitor" to the ground and stomped it under his menacingly striped feet. And, of course, he's already broken out of his white-walled prison... leaving his furry yellow friends behind bars without a second thought.

And, if that's not enough, I encourage you to look over his shoulder to see who's in his toddler gang... when was the last time you saw an orange monkey wearing a wrestling onsie? Plus, does that monkey have a 5 o'clock shadow?!

It's always fun to see my mobiles - don't call it a baby mobile - hanging in the real world. Thanks to a dear client for sending this fun photo of my "am i blue" mobile (sporting a splash of panache with a red dot) swirling in their son's admittedly very hip room. Heck, *I* don't even have a bedskirt, but he has one AND it even matches his curtains, too!

Don't worry, lil' man, I won't call it a baby mobile... as long as you promise not to eat it!
January 26, 2010
12:17
Mobiles & Haiti Relief - Small Gesture, Big Hope
» ‎ mark leary designs - mobiles & other swirlygigs

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when you commission a mobile between now and february 28th, I will donate 10% of your purchase to help support the heroic efforts of the red cross, here in the states & internationally.

visit www.mobilosity.etsy.com or www.mobilosity.net to order your mobile today.

i realize it's not much, but it's something...

of course, you can donate without buying a mobile by visiting: www.redcross.org/

haiti is just one place where the international red cross, including the american red cross, do amazing work.

at home and abroad, we need to keep organizations like the red cross fully funded, so that they - their staffs and volunteers - can continue to serve our people in real need everywhere... everyone from our neighbors suffering here due to such things as these tough economic times to people thrust into chaos as a result of such things as natural disasters and political upheaval.

whether it's the red cross or any of the many great organizations that do truly human-itarian work to make every part of our world a better place (orgs committed to such missions that help with education, health, social equality, human rights, the environment, poverty, hunger, and so many more "issues" that affect you and me every single day in our own cities), make today the day you participate and rally for real change in your own backyard or the world.
January 16, 2010
15:40
Mobile Collaborationisticism or On The Merits of the Fierce-Lithe
» ‎ mark leary designs - mobiles & other swirlygigs

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"Red Scene from Yimou Zhang's Hero"

Working with a client in the Midwest on designing a mobile right now...

Searching for that One that expresses her unique aesthetic - reaching past the everyday and pulling out the heart of matter... or just something that spins and is red, red, red.

When discussing influences and inspirations to shape the design, she shared the following BRILLIANT explosion of picture words and insight that literally left me smacked me speechless, and mused me something mighty:

"Further leaves and kineticism: literally The Most Gorgeous Thing I Have Ever Seen On Film is the scene in the red portion of Hero (which I'd actually call a *directorial* Crowning Moment of Awesome) when Flying Snow and Moon are fighting in the grove of trees, with the luminous yellow leaves, and just when I thought it couldn't, it couldn't possibly, not in this so-often drab and hackneyed world of ours, get any more exquisite. Because seriously, who could possibly read my mind like that and tap into my inner gorgeous compass so successfully when *I* didn't even know I was waiting, just waiting for it to get more beautiful? Well, apparently Yimou Zhang does that for all of us, because suddenly, as I was already weeping at how beautiful it was...all the leaves turned RED. Holy s**t! And yes, if you read this as: 'has a weakness for kung fu movies combined with gorgeousness,' you are correct.

I once sat down on a bench in front of a giant Rothko at SFMoMA. And fell into it. When I emerged from the thinking-oxbow about holy-s**t-it-looks-like-color-breathing, it was about half an hour later. I also kind of venerate Klee for his wonderful sense of whimsy and play. His work makes me giggle with real-live, actual delight. Both of these artists only the work in person. I thought Rothko was a gigantic wanker when I studied him from reproductions in art history.

Oh, how the mighty do fall. As you might surmise, I like the way Rothko treats color, and the way Klee treats media."

Holy Jawdropper! Do I really need to say ANYTHING? If that word candy isn't inspiration for a paradigm-busting mobile design, I don't know what is.

Stay tuned!
January 14, 2010
16:58
bigger blu mobile got crunked
» ‎ mark leary designs - mobiles & other swirlygigs

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"bigger blu"

what happens when you take a perfectly good mobile - a great big one, in fact - and crunk it all up?

what's the result when you take gracefully arcing arms and bend, twist, tweak and generally dis-grace them into a disheveled, yet intentional mess of tangle and tease?

bigger blu is what you get.

yep, i took a HUGE over six foot mobile and squenched it down, bent it up, and crimpled its crumple to totally transform this once serene mobile in blues and blueish greens into an electrified spin of wave and current. ahhh yeahhhh!

don't get me wrong - he's still a REALLY big boy at approx. 42" long by 28 wide.

would you be so kind to give him a home? inside or out, he's ready to take flight... and - with a little loving - i'm sure he'll play nicely with all the neighborhood kids, maybe even Spot.

here he is BEFORE & AFTER...
January 12, 2010
12:09
Mobilosity Spotlighted By Kitsune Noir On Etsy
» ‎ mark leary designs - mobiles & other swirlygigs

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"Kitsune Noir aka Bobby Solomon"

In my opinion, blog phenom Kitsune Noir (aka Bobby Solomon) creates one of the coolest blogs in the world ( [kitsunenoir.com] ). He blasts off an amazing daily snapshot of what's what in the world of art - tidbits, teases and tantalizations from every corner in every medium... the millions of others who read his Kitsune Noir blog must agree, too.

Recently, Kitsune Noir was the Guest Curator on Etsy. And, get this... one of my mobiles (which was inspired by the insanely talented mobilist Rick Bissell who was in turn inspired by Alexander Calder) made it into his top picks.
You can read his entire feature here: Etsy: The Storque: Guest Curator: Kitsune Noir

Here's a snippet for you: Not too long ago, handmade items weren't considered a luxury, they were the only option. Okay, maybe that was before most of us can even remember, but it seems like handmade is definitely having a revival. After the plastic craze of the 60's and 70's, people are over mass-production and want something unique and well-crafted. Not that mass-production is going anywhere soon, but it's certainly nice to have some alternatives.
My list of Etsy picks, as well as my personal style, is a mixture of vintage and contemporary things. I definitely have a love for both the new and the classic, so finding items that mesh well together is the challenge. The list also journeys not only into items for the home but personal accessories as well. I hope you enjoy my choices, I had a lot of fun putting them all together.
Check out his entire feature here: Etsy: The Storque: Guest Curator: Kitsune Noir
January 11, 2010
14:40
New Exhibition Opens January 11th at Red Brick Gallery
» ‎ mark leary designs - mobiles & other swirlygigs

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I'm honored to be showing my mobiles at the Red Brick Gallery in Ventura, California.

If you're in the area, please stop in to see my newest mobiles and the gallery's latest exhibition, Shades of Day, running from January 11th through February 22nd.

Jen Livia, the founder and owner of Red Brick, is AMAZING! She is an incredible artist, a super savvy and plugged-in businesswoman, creative as the day is long and redefines what "giving back" really means. What an inspiration!

Just check out a snippet from a recent article and you'll quickly see what a dynamo Jen is:

"This 28-year-old artist, founder of the Red Brick Gallery and winner of a 2008 Mayor’s Arts Award, has done more than her fair share to build the relationship between art and the community. She works closely with the Downtown Ventura Organization, promoting local events, and somehow finds time to teach art classes for children."

Read the entire article here: 2009 Trailblazers in Ventana: Fine Living in Ventura County

You can learn more about the Gallery and the latest show here: Red Brick Gallery

You can even see a little bio on me and my mobiles in their artist section, too.

Here's to a hugely successful show and 2010 for the entire gallery!
January 10, 2010
12:29
Mark Leary Mobiles Featured in Central Oregon New Home Living Magazine
» ‎ mark leary designs - mobiles & other swirlygigs

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"In fact, his success with mobiles is
amusing to Leary “because I’ve always
been horrible with spatial relationships.”

This line from the recent feature article in Central Oregon New Home Living Magazine on me and my mobiles cracks me up... because it's SO true.

Read the entire article here: Life and Art In Balance

You see, spatial relationships and balance have always taunted me.

- I wasn't admitted into the gifted program as a child because I couldn't figure out how to put some silly plastic blocks together into a prescribed pattern.

- I love mountain biking, but am more likely to be found running into trees, off a cliff or into unsuspecting wildlife than staying on the trail.

I wish I could blame it on a genetic defect or a bad batch of spinach when I was growing up, but - alas - it is what it is.

So, if you find me running into walls or tripping over imaginary bumps, feel free to chuckle a little... because it's okay to laugh, really.

That said and even though my balance problem was outed in print, I really *was* honored to have my mobiles spotlighted in the magazine (a special publication of The Bend Bulletin and Western Communications, Inc.) and the writer, Lori Gleichman (who is talented as all get-out), was a real pleasure to share time with. In fact, she ended up commissioning me to create an uber-colorful mobile for her husband's birthday (see below).

Fun, fun!

Read the entire article here: Life and Art In Balance
January 09, 2010
13:30
The Holiday Mobilosity Blitz
» ‎ mark leary designs - mobiles & other swirlygigs

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"mobile mania"

One, two, three, four... eight, nine, ten...

Yea! I apparently still have all my fingers!

After another blessedly robust holiday mobile-making season, I'm finally able to emerge from my shop for a few moments to breathe non-metallic air and - more importantly - say "thank you."

Mothers, daughters, uncles, boyfriends, wives, friends, parents-to-be, proud grandparents, and so many more of you who have touched my life and allowed me to spin a little simple fun into yours with my mobiles.

I just feel really, really grateful for all the incredible people I've met along this mobile-making journey.

What an amazing treat for me.

So, thank you, thank you, and - yes - thank YOU!

Here's to an insanely fabulous 2010 for you and yours!

Cheers -

Mark
13:21
Turning 40 Demands a BIG Mobile
» ‎ mark leary designs - mobiles & other swirlygigs

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"4D"

My best friend, Devin, turned 40 last month...

Many many years ago, Devin was one of the original recipients of one my first mobiles (and I use the word "mobile" loosely as I was still in a highly experimental stage at the time and by "experimental" I mean that I had no idea what I was doing and by "no idea what I was doing" I mean he's lucky the mobile didn't self-destruct on his head and cause permanent damage).

Well, in honor of his epic rite of passage into his 40s, it seemed only appropriate that I create the biggest mobile I've ever done... a blade to celebrate each year of his amazing life.

Yep, that's 40 blades... holy smokes!

It was a great challenge and I had a blast designing a special spinning monster especially for him.

Here's a quick picture of it before it went into paint (ended up with 21 different colors of blue, green, and one orange). Whoa!
13:05
Now Showing at The Attic Art Gallery in Crown Point
» ‎ mark leary designs - mobiles & other swirlygigs

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"the mega wavy gravy in white and red"

I'm super excited to share that I'm now showing in the Midwest at The Attic Art Gallery in Crown Point, IN.

The owner, Robert Radzinski, has done a spectacular job with his new gallery - bringing together an impressive group of up-and-coming and established artists in a really fantastic space outside of Chicago.

To learn more about the gallery, check out this fun article: [nwitimes.com]

Currently on exhibit are some of my larger mobiles including xl versions of the original wavy gravy, seed poddy, the juggler, one-orange-one, and a totally new big & beefy design, big blu.

You can visit the gallery online at www.theatticgallery.com or in person at:

208 South Main Street Crown Point, Indiana 46307

Here are a couple pictures Robert recently shared...
July 20, 2009
15:53
chip off the ol' block
» ‎ mark leary designs - mobiles & other swirlygigs

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"mint chip without the chip"

hot day. cold ice cream. melting. drip, drip, lick, lick, slurp... what's any of that have to do with this mobile? um, nothing, really... but it *is* a hot day. based on the larger 'aubergine & cream' design, this mobile is smaller (duh) and mintier in a fresh menthol bluish-green. nice articulation means when one spins the rest will follow. thinner arm wire means great for indoors and A/Cs

size: approx. 11" tall x "23 wide
15:49
that's what she said
» ‎ mark leary designs - mobiles & other swirlygigs

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"trust me"

okay, you gotta trust me on this one... i can't for the life of me get a good picture of it... perhaps she's camera shy? or cast some magic no-photo spell around itself... whatever the story, i just can't do her justice with photos...

i'll say this... it's one of my hands-down current favorite mobiles... - unpainted sanded metal sparkles in the sun - angled blades spin and swirl pointing this way and that - very vertical design cuts up your visual field into many parts - mixes organic and geometric shapes to give an industrial yet natural vibe, like a metallic climbing vine

grab this one while it lasts!

size: approx. 42" long x 24" wide
July 01, 2009
14:26
...send johnny on over...
» ‎ mark leary designs - mobiles & other swirlygigs

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"red rover, red rover"

(yes, I know this is a horrible photo... sorry about that!)

yep, send this red-hot baby over...

When in motion, you get the impression of a spastic 9-year-old boy desperately dodging a bouncy red ball that's been thrown at him full-speed by the biggest kid in his 5th grade class... oh, wait a minute, that's not right... flashback to St. Didacus... breathe in, breathe out...

When in motion, some new design ideas crash together (without actually hitting one another) in this fun vertical dude... great when moving and pretty dang cool when it's standing still...

size: approx. 28" long by 22" wide - also can be custom made to order in your preferred size

For questions, comments or pricing, contact mark@marklearydesigns.com
14:18
say it isn't snow
» ‎ mark leary designs - mobiles & other swirlygigs

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"snow white"

i've done a 'black beauty' version of this mobile for years, that is - surprise, surprise - painted pink... um, no, actually it's painted black... you thought I was going to say 'egglplant," didn't you? it's okay to admit...

but seriously... this mobile has superior articulation & movement... because each arm is directly interlocked with the one below (rather than being connected by eyelets as are many of my mobiles).

This subtle difference in design mechanics means much more immediate movement... when one blows, all the others are helpless to do anything but follow...

i can create in any size to perfectly accommodate your space.

spins effortlessly with the smallest breath of air - even heating or cooling systems make it dance!

size: approx. 24" long by 21" wide - also can be custom made to order in your preferred size

For questions, comments or pricing, contact mark@marklearydesigns.com
June 27, 2009
15:13
Welcome to the TEMPORARY home of mark leary designs
» ‎ mark leary designs - mobiles & other swirlygigs

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Hey there and hello!

Welcome to the ever-so-temporary home of Mark Leary Designs... which is just a fancy name for fun stuff that moves... or, art to hang with... or, yep, just mobiles, mobiles, and more mobiles!

In the days to come, I'll be launching a new site with many more bells and whistles (well, not actual bells nor whistles, but you know what I mean). It'll allow you a much better look at the mobiles, as well as the inside scoop on how they're made, and - if you're lucky - a secret introduction to the mastermind behind the whole enchilada: Buddy the Cat!

So, check back in soon for the new site!

For now, there are 40 mobiles showcased on this site, so be sure to click on through to the older posts to see 'em all.

And, if you live in Central Oregon, swing on by Furnish (near the Old Mill in Bend). Or if you're not in the area, watch them spin at the Red Brick Gallery in Ventura, CA, Rare Device in San Francisco, or the Made Gallery in New Orleans.

If you have any questions, comments, or would like purchase a mobile, please visit one of my galleries or contact me directly at mark@marklearydesigns.com

Thanks for visiting!
14:49
spin, spin, spin
» ‎ mark leary designs - mobiles & other swirlygigs

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"the original three-by-3"

keep it simple, keep it real.

right?

three of one, three of the other... doesn't get much simpler than that.

what more can i say than clean design, striking colors, and the guy who started the whole three-by-3 craze.

this lil' dude is the perfect size for just about any space, inside or out, small or large, make a statement with art that moves!

size: approx. 12" tall by 13" wide

For questions, comments or pricing, contact mark@marklearydesigns.com
14:46
ben or jerry?
» ‎ mark leary designs - mobiles & other swirlygigs

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"the original wavy gravy"

no ice cream here (sorry)...

just a freakin' fun mobile that suggests waves rolling in, the crashing surf, and the next epic set on the horizon ready to break...

ocean blues punctuate this fluid piece with a soothing presence.

as for movement, this baby is deceptively simple... the articulated arms bounce and spin in a constant splash of controlled whitewater chaos...

size: approx. 36" wide by 24" tall, but can custom sized for your order

For questions, comments or pricing, contact mark@marklearydesigns.com
14:39
got balls?
» ‎ mark leary designs - mobiles & other swirlygigs

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"the juggler"

fun shapes in bright complimentary colors flying willy-nilly through the sky evoke the spirit of three-ring circuses, elephants on parade, snotty-nosed kids, cotton candy, and the crazy juggling clown bringing smiles to all.

fabulous fluid movement are the 'hollah back' hallmarks of this new design for 2009.

with shocking colors, the juggler is guaranteed to brighten up any room, indoors or out.

size: approx. 16" tall x 27" wide

For questions, comments or pricing, contact mark@marklearydesigns.com
14:38
going up and up and up
» ‎ mark leary designs - mobiles & other swirlygigs

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"upnup"

this gray & orange beaut is a pristine example of a calder-inspired gem...

nothing extraneous on this articulated workhorse... just a pure joy at moving & moving and moving - almost with the passing of thoughts... but definitely with any air circulation, heater, a/c, or the moving body...

size: approx. 35" by 18" - also can be custom made to order in your preferred size & colors

For questions, comments or pricing, contact mark@marklearydesigns.com
14:35
that girl is POISON
» ‎ mark leary designs - mobiles & other swirlygigs

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"the poison zook"

unpredictable. always on the move. lurking... ready... stealthy... ATTACK!

the poison zook may seem unassuming, but don't be fooled...he's a mobile assassin.

he waits calmly. draws you in. then, whammo-ka-slammo, he strikes...

this fun lil' mover flirts with danger with every twist and turn... are you ready?

the perfect size for just about any space, inside or out, small or large.

size: approx. 13" tall x 20" wide

For questions, comments or pricing, contact mark@marklearydesigns.com
14:33
where are the clouds?
» ‎ mark leary designs - mobiles & other swirlygigs

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"sun & shine"

this seven-bladed two-toned superstar is drenched in deep blue on one side and sanded fine for a natural metallic shine on the other. a sunshine-y orb centers the affair from which all the rays do their mobile-izing thing.

superb bouncy balance & round-and-round-and-round movement on this unique two-tone design makes it a really fun art piece, indoors or out.

spins effortlessly with the smallest breath of air (yes, even morning breath and heating or cooling systems make it dance, too!

Custom made to order so you can pick the color(s) you want!

size: approx. 12" long by 12" wide

For questions, comments or pricing, contact mark@marklearydesigns.com
14:31
i'm taking a bath
» ‎ mark leary designs - mobiles & other swirlygigs

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"splish splash"

big rain drop interpretations spin rather than splash and are always on the move...

super sensitive mobile is perfect for indoor or outdoor enjoyment...

size: custom made for your order

For questions, comments or pricing, contact mark@marklearydesigns.com
14:27
sparkle sparkle
» ‎ mark leary designs - mobiles & other swirlygigs

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"shineel'ilboaz"

resurrected from a pieces of a long-abandoned mobile this slim dazzler is roughly constructed and aggressively etched, but there's a subtly to it that splashes down like a spring rain... um, on crack, that is! When light hits this baby, it screams "it's all about ME!"

Perfect for the garden or a real statement indoors, this is one mobile that needs a home.

size: approx. 33" long x 14" wide

For questions, comments or pricing, contact mark@marklearydesigns.com
14:24
another seed poddy
» ‎ mark leary designs - mobiles & other swirlygigs

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"seed poddy jr."

in the tradition of form follows function, this ruggedly rustic, yet undeniably modern mobile has its roots firmly planted in a metaphoric image of seeds sprouting new life and reaching skyward toward a contemporary revolution.

with organic shapes that mimic foliage you'd see in each of the four seasons - from the expectant buds of spring, the ripe fullness of summer, the brilliant release of fall, to the crisp truth of winter - this mobile is an homage to all things natural - including the rough and tough - while being seriously committed to all things modern and minimal.

A uniquely articulated mobile - lacking a harmonious fluidity of all parts moving in synchrony - she moves as does nature... in fits and spurts, of its own mind and desires, and ever ready to twist and turn toward the realization of the next sunrise, the next moment, the next now.

size: approx. 20" by 20"

For questions, comments or pricing, contact mark@marklearydesigns.com