A Letter From Leo’s Mom, Sylvia. November, 2024

Dear Friends of the Leo Maddox Legacy, we hope this letter finds you well.

It is with great excitement that we announce the completion of a remarkable new art installation that we were delighted to have had the opportunity to commission for the “Paul G. Allen School of Computer Science & Engineering” at University of Washington.

Titled “Not Afraid of Falling,” this extraordinary piece was created by Los Angeles-based artist Glenn Kaino, an internationally acclaimed visionary known for his groundbreaking creativity and originality.

“Not Afraid of Falling” is a mediation of time and life. It is a reminder of the fragility of our existence and a symbol of our humanity and our instinct to invent and create. Alternatively read as “Not afraid of failing,” it is an inspiration to take chances and risks in an environment designed to be a safe space for experimentation and discovery. It depicts a young boy who will forever swing in the playground of dreams, as a reminder for all students who pass through that the spirit of playfulness and creativity is always present.” - Glenn Kaino

The figure in “Not Afraid of Falling” swings continuously on its trapeze, with its slow movement only visible over hours and days.

This work pays homage to Antonio Diavolo, an automaton built in the 1850s by French watchmaker and magician Jean-Eugène Robert-Houdin. With no electricity or microcontrollers, Houdin created a remote-controlled figure (a “robot”) that performed acrobatic stunts on a swinging trapeze. In 1977, the remains of the terribly damaged Antonio figure passed into the hands of illusionist John Gaughan, who spent 7 years restoring it. Gaughan, alongside Kaino’s long-time collaborator, Gideon Webster, worked together to create the sculpture you see today.

Antonio Diavolo and “Not Afraid of Falling” show our endless fascination with human-like figures that exhibit human-like functions; this is, in fact, the definition of “robot.” “Not Afraid of Falling” is an artistic expression of hope, intertwined with methods from the past and technology still to come.

The installation, dedicated on Friday, October 25, 2024, would not have been possible without the dedication and collaboration of many individuals. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the numerous people whose support made this project a reality, including: — from the University of Washington School of Computer Science — Hank Levy, Magda Balazinska, Ed Lazowska, and Marzette Mondin, and from the UW Facilities team, Kristine Kenny, Leita Bain, and Anna Daeuble.

“Not Afraid of Falling” is now a permanent feature in the 1st Floor Atrium of the Bill & Melinda Gates Center, at the University of Washington. This addition enriches the School’s art collection, reflecting the same diversity and originality as the brilliant minds filling this building every day.

Sincerely,
Sylvia