kenneth snelson

Kenneth Snelson (born June 29, 1927) is a contemporary sculptor and photographer. His sculptural works, composed of flexible and rigid components, are arranged according to the idea called by some (but not Snelson) 'tensegrity'.

Snelson claims that Buckminster Fuller, who was once his professor, took credit for Snelson's discovery of the concept that Fuller named tensegrity. Fuller gave the idea its name, combining 'tension' and 'structural integrity.' The geodesic domes which Fuller popularized are the most commonly known structures whose composition depends on tensegrity.

The height and strength of Snelson's sculptures, which are often delicate in appearance, depend on the tension between rigid pipes and flexible cables. This is achieved through "a win-win combination of push and pull."

http://www.kennethsnelson.net/