John Peralta, an Austin-based artist, creates captivating 3D sculptures by deconstructing iconic gadgets like Rollieflex cameras and Singer sewing machines. He suspends each part of these vintage items on individual strings of monofilament, creating intricate, exploded diagrams of historic technology.
Peralta’s passion for this art form started early. As a child, he and his brother would roam their neighborhood with a red wagon, collecting broken radios and tape decks to take apart and examine. His fascination with how things work, combined with inspiration from the geometric art of M.C. Escher, turned his hobby into a full-time career.
In his work, Peralta meticulously disassembles each gadget, from old film reels to typewriters, and hangs every component in illuminated frames. These 19th- and 20th-century devices are expanded to reveal the complex inner mechanisms, offering a detailed look at their history and function.
Peralta’s artistic journey continues to evolve as he explores new materials and techniques. His piece “New Abnormal” even features a 1980s boombox with tiny figures interacting with its wiring. His latest commissions include a large floating musical instrument display for a Nashville hotel and a sculpture made from the guitar Robby Krieger used for The Doors’ first album.
If you’re in Los Angeles, check out Peralta’s upcoming exhibition at The Loft at Liz’s, opening September 28. You can explore more of his work on his website or follow him on Instagram.
