Pistons, gears, and constant motion, all mixed up, give Dale Mathis the whole inspiration to create sculptures with a lot of meaning

Dale Mathis

Art That Moves the World

BY LAURA HENKEL

In the ever-evolving world of contemporary art, few artists master the balance between form and meaning as seamlessly as Dale Mathis. From his humble beginnings at the Arts Factory in Las Vegas to site-specific installations across the globe, his artistic journey is a testament to his dedication to form and meaning. His kinetic sculptures don’t just move—they invite introspection, bridging the mechanical and emotional to create art that feels alive.

Kinetic sculpture refers to three-dimensional artwork that incorporates movement as an essential element of its design. This movement can be powered by natural forces like wind and water, mechanical systems like gears and motors, or viewer interaction. Unlike static sculptures, kinetic pieces invite audiences to engage with dynamic and evolving works, offering a mesmerizing fusion of engineering and artistic expression.

Wes Myles Isbutt, founder of the Arts Factory and a prominent collector, underscores the universal appeal of Mathis’ work:

Dale is truly a world-class artist. His work resonates universally—every person who walks through our doors is immediately captivated by it. There’s a unique value in his art that speaks to everyone. Dale’s ability to envision and flawlessly execute his concepts sets him apart. Unlike a painting that can be reworked, his creations must come together perfectly from the start—there’s no margin for error. And when they do, the result is nothing short of spectacular.

The Evolution of an Artist

As a child, Mathis was captivated by the intricate process of assembling model cars, planes, and sci-fi replicas from “Star Wars.” This fascination soon evolved into creating his versions of model spaceships by repurposing parts from other kits—a practice now known as “kitbashing.”

Later in life, a serendipitous commission marked his entry into kinetic art. A client requested a custom desk, and Mathis proposed including gears as a visual reference. The client asked if the gears could be functional and agreed to pay extra for this feature. That moment changed the course of his career, igniting his passion for creating art that moves both physically and emotionally. He was living in his studio, working construction, barely making enough money to buy a slice of pizza or a hot dog.

During this time, Mathis began to hone his craft in Las Vegas as part of the art collective Five Finger Miscount (5FM). Known for their underground shows, which included graffiti, 5FM played a pivotal role in the cultural explosion of underground hip-hop and graffiti art and helped launch the Las Vegas Arts District in the 1990s. Members included Mathis, Emmett Gates (also known as Iceberg Slick), KD Matheson, Dray, and Mear One, all of whom continue to create magnificent work today.

Gates, now an acclaimed filmmaker and serves as curator of M Modern Gallery in Palm Springs, is currently producing “5ive Finger Miscount,” a documentary film highlighting the group’s origin and their contributions that significantly shaped the Las Vegas Arts District into what it is today. This film will follow his documentary, “Across the Tracks: A Las Vegas Westside Story,” which features the unknown history of Black creatives and innovators of the 1950s, such as architect Paul Revere Williams, who positively impacted the lives of all. Per Gates:

From Dale’s humble beginnings to traveling globally to connect with collectors and corporations to make site-specific works of art, Mathis calls Las Vegas home. He remains real, continually innovating and always inspiring. My favorite thing about Dale is that you could put him and one of his works in a room together, and very few people would pick him out of a lineup as the creator. His physical size automatically makes him intimidating until you take the time to meet and speak to him and find out he’s a teddy bear. This juxtaposition between his commanding physicality and gentle nature mirrors the profound contrasts in his work—mechanical complexity paired with emotional depth.

Kinetic Sculptures: Marrying Mechanics and Emotion

Kinetic art combines movement with meaning by its very nature. Mathis elevates this interplay by creating sculptures that engage viewers on multiple sensory levels. His work transcends mere mechanics to explore profound themes such as time, relationships, and human connection.

His sculptures are celebrated for their ability to resonate emotionally while dazzling with technical precision. Collectors seek his creations for their unique industrial strength and artistic elegance. “Every piece I create isn’t just about movement,” Mathis explains. “It’s about making a statement, about capturing the constant motion in life and turning it into something people can feel.”

One of the most memorable moments in his career occurred when the Prince of Qatar visited Key West on his yacht. “He was exploring a gallery where my work was displayed,” Mathis said. “He liked one of my pieces and said it had to be installed on his yacht the next day because he was leaving.”

This serendipitous encounter reinforced the universal appeal of his kinetic art and remains a defining moment in his journey. Upon seeing his work, collectors often feel an immediate desire to own it. Many then commission him to create site-specific works of art.

A Universal Connection: Art that Resonates Across Spaces

His work isn’t confined to a single city. The sculptures that he creates have been exhibited in galleries across the United States, drawing admirers worldwide. His commissions reflect his work’s versatility and broad appeal, which blends kinetic elegance with profound emotional resonance.

His sculptures are more than just feats of mechanical brilliance—they’re emotional experiences that connect with viewers on a deeper level. His pieces, whether clocks, desks, or public installations, are imbued with a human touch—a reflection of the constant motion that defines life. They invite viewers to reflect on the cycles of time, the balance of relationships, and the power of leadership while captivating the eye with their mechanical elegance.

Mathis’ attention to technical precision and cosmic themes is more than functional art. He bridges the ancient and the modern, the mechanical and the spiritual, creating a dialogue between humanity’s eternal questions and contemporary innovation.

The Behalf: A Timepiece of Harmony and Interdependence

A recurring theme in his work is the exploration of relationships between people, concepts, or even parts of a machine. “The Behalf,” a kinetic clock, beautifully exemplifies this. More than a mere timepiece, it represents the delicate balance and unity required to sustain literal and symbolic partnerships. The intricate, interlocking gears within the clock mirror the unseen labor necessary to maintain harmony in any relationship, much like the effort behind human connections.

The clock’s two halves move in unison, evoking a metaphor for how disparate individuals or elements come together to form a greater whole. As each gear turns, it represents the cooperative energy necessary to keep the relationship functional and thriving. The subtle, rhythmic movement of the clock is hypnotic and profound, reminding viewers of the balance, cooperation, and continuous effort that make any partnership—whether personal or professional—truly work.

Astrological Clock: A Journey Through Time and the Cosmos

His fascination with movement extends beyond the human world to the celestial. With “Astrological Clock,” he draws upon the ancient human desire to find meaning in the stars and the cycles of time. This stunning piece invites viewers to reflect on their place in the universe by connecting the mechanical precision of the clock to the vast, ethereal nature of the cosmos.

The “Astrological Clock” symbolizes humanity’s never-ending quest to bring order to chaos. It features horoscope symbols, planets, and constellations. At the clock’s center, the sun radiates, casting light on the celestial bodies that orbit it—each piece meticulously placed to mirror the natural flow of time and space. As the clock moves, viewers are reminded that our lives, much like the stars, are part of a larger, interconnected system.

The Executive Desk: A Fusion of Industrial Strength and Mechanical Elegance

His creations aren’t limited to the fine art world. His ability to combine aesthetic beauty with practical functionality is best seen in the “Executive Desk,” originally commissioned by a doctor before catching the eye of director F. Gary Gray for the film “Straight Outta Compton.” With its sleek lines, moving gears, and industrial strength, the desk symbolizes leadership, authority and ambition.

The desk’s legs, inspired by a chrome shock absorber from a hot rod shop, and the oversized bolts, molded from an abandoned crane, represent his unique ability to turn raw materials into symbols of power and resilience. But the desk’s true beauty lies in its movement. The gears, constantly in motion, mirror the relentless energy of decision-making and control. Mathis explains, “It’s more than a piece of furniture. It’s a reflection of what it means to lead, move forward and harness the power within.”

Gates further elaborates on Mathis’ exceptional journey. “Visual art isn’t what we usually expect from a Black kid forged in the dangerous streets of Los Angeles in the 1980s. He could have just as easily ended up as another statistic.” Instead, Mathis channeled his environment into a creative outlet, crafting works as intellectually compelling as visually captivating.

The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium: A Bespoke Experience

One of Mathis’ most public and beloved commissions is his work for the Toothsome Chocolate Emporium, a steampunk-inspired dining venue at Universal Studios Hollywood. The venue’s whimsical, Victorian-industrial aesthetic provided the perfect canvas for his kinetic creations, seamlessly integrated into the emporium’s fantastical narrative.

“This project allowed me to dive into the narrative, to create something that wasn’t just beautiful but integral to the storytelling of the space,” Mathis reflects. His pieces—moving gears and interactive elements—became central to the steampunk ambiance, turning the dining experience into something magical and immersive.

By blending narrative and design, Mathis elevates the Toothsome Chocolate Emporium from a dining venue to an experiential work of art, exemplifying how site-specific work can enrich cultural spaces.

Explore and Imagine: An Invitation to Collectors and Enthusiasts

The works featured in this article are just a glimpse into the breadth of his portfolio. His extensive body of work spans many themes, styles and mediums, offering something for every admirer of kinetic art. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a curious enthusiast, exploring Mathis’ full portfolio reveals the depth of his creativity and vision.

Mathis is an artist and collaborator who thrives on bringing visions of others to life. For example, his work with a prominent luxury hotel group in Las Vegas showcased his ability to design site-specific pieces that aligned seamlessly with the brand’s steampunk aesthetic. The result was an immersive kinetic sculpture displayed in the hotel’s main lobby, capturing the attention of guests worldwide. This collaboration demonstrated his unique talent for merging artistic ingenuity with a collector’s or brand’s conceptual needs, leaving a lasting impression on viewers.

For those looking to go beyond the existing pieces, Mathis welcomes collaborating with collectors who want to think outside the box. His expertise in creating custom, site-specific works offers endless possibilities for new, innovative creations that reflect your unique vision. Whether it’s a bespoke piece for your home or a large-scale installation, his ability to bring imaginative concepts to life is unparalleled.

As Mathis himself says, “I love working with people who have a bold vision. Together, we can create something special that moves both in mechanics and spirit.”

Family, Purpose, and the Art of Connection

Mathis’ creative journey is deeply intertwined with his role as a father to three daughters, shaping his artistry and his approach to life and purpose. He reflects, “Creating isn’t just about self-expression anymore. It’s about purpose and sustainability. Everything I create has to have a reason, a function, and a legacy for my daughters.” His role as a father and husband inspires much of his work, weaving personal meaning into every creation.

At the heart of his studio is vibrant family collaboration. His wife’s colorful outlook on life and his daughter Hope’s perspective are catalysts for fresh creative energy. Hope, an aspiring artist, often collaborates with Mathis, contributing modern and conceptual viewpoints that breathe new life into their projects. Together, the family delves into the evolving intersection of art and business, crafting a sustainable creative enterprise that remains authentic to its emotional core. Mathis is resolute in teaching his daughters the art of creation and navigating its business, ensuring they’re equipped to succeed in their artistic endeavors.

Mathis also reflects on the influence of modern technology in his process. “It’s not just about movement; it’s about connection—both mechanical and emotional,” he explains, underscoring his dedication to creating meaningful and resonant works.

Looking Ahead

As Mathis looks to the future, he envisions evolving beyond kinetic art to explore new creative directions. Inspired by the artistic transformations of figures like Picasso, Mathis is ready to enter a new chapter in his career. “I’m going to evolve from just doing kinetic art. I’m at a point in my life where I’m ready to explore and reinvent. As Picasso went through his blue period and many others as he evolved, I will, too. I’m going to be working more with my wife and daughter. We want to develop the business into a design firm further and work on corporate-driven visions and the art we create. We love being involved with challenging big projects.”

The family aims to tackle corporate projects while continuing to create art that resonates on multiple levels. Mathis is excited about challenging large-scale projects, which offer opportunities to push boundaries and expand his impact. “The future is about exploring the unknown, finding new ways to connect with people through art,” he shares.

A Legacy in Motion

Ultimately, Mathis’ work draws people into the world of art. Early in his career, he learned that movement captures attention—it’s what sets his pieces apart and earns them a place at the forefront of galleries. As his journey continues, his commitment to innovation and connection remains steadfast. With his family’s fresh perspectives and the ever-evolving landscape of technology, Mathis is excited for what lies ahead.

For collectors, enthusiasts, or corporate innovators, Mathis offers more than just art—he offers a chance to engage with works that move physically and emotionally. “Art is about collaboration,” Mathis says. “Whether it’s with my family, my collectors, or the spaces my work inhabits, it’s about creating something truly special and timeless.”

As his long-time friend and collaborator, Gates captures the essence of Mathis’ journey and character: “Dale has been a very close friend of mine for decades. We talk often. He’s very interested in the ‘how and why’ of things. He told me that as a child, he would take any opportunity to open a discarded radio or television to see how the mechanics worked. I think he seeks to give us that in his work.”

This poignant insight into Mathis’ lifelong curiosity and dedication to understanding and sharing the intricacies of movement adds a deeply personal note to his artistic legacy. It reflects not only his mastery of kinetic art but also his drive to inspire others to see the beauty in the details of life.

For those captivated by the motion of life’s intricate gears, his art provides a space to explore, reflect, and imagine. To see more, visit www.dalemathis.com.