Chaos I

Chaos I is a 30-foot-tall mechanical sculpture in The Commons in Columbus made of steel and powered by twelve motors that drive its operation. Steel balls roll along curved tracks while various metal components rotate throughout the day.

The sculpture was commissioned in 1971 and created by Swiss artist Jean Tinguely, who was known worldwide for his moving artworks. Local Columbus industries contributed by providing scrap metal and motors needed for its assembly.

The sculpture draws visitors in through the continuity of its movements, reflecting the rhythm of daily routines. People stop to watch as steel balls follow their tracks and metal parts turn, creating a shared experience of industrial motion.

You can watch the sculpture from several angles inside The Commons building during its normal hours. Plan to spend some time observing the repeating cycle of the moving parts to appreciate how the piece operates.

The installation weighs seven tons, making it one of the heaviest kinetic artworks of its era. The scale of its moving mechanics makes it a rare creation in the field of industrial art.

Location: Columbus

Inception: 1974

Creator: Jean Tinguely

Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible

GPS coordinates: 39.20219,-85.92140

Latest update: December 11, 2025 11:09