Mail artisan mechanical

You're interested in Mail Art and Mechanical Mail Art!

Mail Art is a global network of artists who create and exchange handmade, unique, and often unconventional mail art pieces. It's a way for artists to connect with each other, share their work, and receive art in return.

Mechanical Mail Art, in particular, is a fascinating subgenre that combines art, engineering, and postal systems. It involves creating intricate, mechanical devices that can be sent through the mail, often with a hidden or surprise element.

Here are some examples of Mechanical Mail Art:

  1. Optical Mail Art: These pieces use mirrors, lenses, and prisms to create optical illusions or 3D effects when viewed through a letterbox or envelope.
  2. Mechanical Cards: These cards have moving parts, such as gears, levers, or pop-up elements, that create a surprise or interactive experience when opened.
  3. Automata Mail Art: These pieces feature small, mechanical creatures or objects that move or perform a task when triggered by a postal stamp or other mechanism.
  4. Puzzle Mail Art: These pieces require the recipient to solve a puzzle or riddle to reveal the artwork or message inside.

Some notable Mail Art and Mechanical Mail Art artists include:

  1. Ray Johnson: An American artist known for his "drip paintings" and pioneering work in Mail Art.
  2. John Held Jr.: An American artist and writer who was a key figure in the development of Mail Art.
  3. H.R. Giger: A Swiss surrealist artist who created mechanical, biomechanical sculptures and art pieces.
  4. Tom Wesselmann: An American pop artist who created mechanical, pop-up art pieces.

If you're interested in creating your own Mechanical Mail Art, you can start by experimenting with simple mechanisms, such as gears, levers, or pop-up elements. You can also join online communities, like the Mail Art Network or the International Union of Mail Artists, to connect with other artists and learn from their experiences.

Remember to always follow postal regulations and guidelines when creating and sending Mechanical Mail Art, as some pieces may require special handling or packaging.