Cog in the Wheel


2023
Modified road bicycle, paint on die cut foam, wooden rod, steel clamp, additional bike parts
Dimensions variable

Cog in the Wheel is an accessorised road bicycle fitted with a large butterfly-shaped key attachment. Mounted on the side and in direct contact with the rear tire, the faux silver key spins when the bright red bicycle is in use, simulating a pint-sized children's wind-up toy. 

The resulting image of the rotating key, activated by pedaling, paradoxically renders the human rider into a mere mechanical piece of hardware, moving by clockwork. By drawing similarities between the highly repetitive nature of cycling and the simple rhythmic movements of automaton toys, this modified vehicle serves as a playful critique of the automaticity and insignificance of the human position.

Presented by NTU Centre for Contemporary Art Singapore at Shimano Cycling World as part of The Passenger Project (2023), curated by Rose Wei.