Frequency

In his exhibition Frequency, David Gallahan explores the mathematic mastery of geodesic spheres to produce detailed industrial sculptures. Geodesic spheres are constructed using flat triangular planes, which form larger triangles. The complexity of these larger triangles is referred to as ‘frequency’. Through David’s construction process, the underlying concepts of geodesic frequency meet repetition and cycle frequencies.

David describes himself as a ‘born workaholic’, who at the age of 76 is driven by the desire to build and make. His first geodesic dome (half sphere) was created at his family farm nearly 25 years ago, when Gallahan became inspired by an article about the American architect and inventor Buckminster Fuller. The complexity and accuracy required by these conceptually perfect structures challenges the artist to solve intricate material problems. David states:

‘The angles to get the struts fitting into the hubs is complex, as is the drilling.  l made numerous wooden jigs to hold the hubs at the correct angles.’

Most of David’s industrial sculptures are made from recycled pallets and used wooden furniture sourced from Council clean-ups. His large Geodesic Sphere is constructed of rural poly pipe that was mostly leftover from farm plumbing. The artist’s resourcefulness is matched only by the patience and skill he brings to each component of his work.