Dan  Jacavanco

After graduating from WPI with a degree in engineering and a commission from the USAF, I followed a professional path of military service, scientific research, technical design, sales, and consulting while developing my creative passion in photography, woodworking, painting, and leatherwork. 

 

Then in 2021, I suffered several strokes, a seizure, and traumatic open-heart surgery. After years of recovery, I found myself at a crossroads. My eyesight, motor skills, and cognition were all compromised. Yet, I had to find a way to remain creative and productive. 

 

After exploring many options, I found kinetic sculpture to be the perfect art form to draw on my background in engineering, design, and woodworking. Years earlier, at the Currier Museum in Manchester NH, I was introduced to Alexander Calder’s work, including a mobile the size of a basketball court!

 

I threw myself into the challenge of learning how to design and construct mobiles as well as designing tools and jigs to accommodate my physical and cognitive challenges. I wanted my mobiles to be easy to hang so that my customers could brighten any space.

 

After two years of trial and error, I developed a system to create mobiles using hardwood and stainless steel rod that is quiet, clean, lightweight, and non-toxic. I draw inspiration from nature and design compositions that echo organic lines and forms.

 

My goal is to bring peace and tranquility into people’s lives.

 

Dan Jacavanco

Kinetic Sculptor