TARA MECHANI
Tara Mechani by Dana Albany is a figurative sculpture that entwines aspects of the ancient female Buddha, Tara, with characteristics of a futuristic female robot.
Playing with the contemporary fascination with technology, the artwork infuses the mechanical with the compassion and empathy associated with the ancient deity. Tara Mechani challenges us to embrace the future without losing sight of past beauty and ancient wisdom.
The sculpture's art deco aesthetic is inspired by the robot Maria from the classic silent film Metropolis.
80% of the materials used for Tara were recycled.
Dimensions: 14’ tall, metal pedestal 3’ tall
Tara’s total height: 17 feet
There is a custom-built chandelier inside of her, made out of repurposed brass chandelier arms that have been bent and reworked to extend from within which wrap elegantly around her sides forming her rib cage. She emanates a soft warm candelabra glow. It is her heart and soul...shining from within. Her lighting hearkens back to a different era that feels exquisite and timeless.
Tara is a composite of recycled machine parts, hinges, hardware, keys, locks, door handles, stainless steel, cable, chain, gears, cogs, copper, brass, hints of glass, tools and old artifacts immaculately blended. She is a medley of non-traditional materials which were all collected from local San Francisco businesses that have either vanished or changed hands. These precious bits and pieces from former local artisans and craftsmen hold history and magic.
Tara Mechani can currently be visited at the Sands Regency Hotel in Reno, Nevada. She is on exhibit until 2024.
