A fusion of nature, machine and folk art.
Artist's Statement
I've always been fascinated by the simple, whimsical motion of whirligigs. I was inspired to bring a more contemporary and modern aesthetic to this form of folk art. The idea of something mechanical—a cam shaft— driven by something natural— the wind—were both interesting to me . The many shapes of the cams provide myriad of opportunities to translate rotational motion into kinetic art. Then, the fish themselves form a natural weathervane that completes the whirligig.
News & Recognition
Kinetic Art Organization (KAO)
2017 International Kinetic Art Competition
PMA Craft Show Preview Feature in Ornament Magazine
David on FYI Philly June 18, 2016 A featured artist at the 2016 Manyunk Arts Festival
David was awarded the status of Master Artisan by the Pennsylvania Guild of Craftsmen
The "Whirligig Guy" at Long's Park Arts Festival
2022 Show Schedule
Fine Craft Fair (Rittenhouse Square)
Philadelphia, PA
May 6 – 8
Baltimore, MD
May 20 – 22
Ludwig's Corner Fine Craft Fair
Glenmoore, PA
June 25 – 26
Haddonfield Crafts & Fine Art Festival
Haddonfield, NJ
July 9 – 10
Central PA Festival of the Arts
State College, PA
July 14 – 17
Syracuse Arts & Crafts Festival
Syracuse, NY
July 29 – 31
Lancaster, PA
September 2 – 4
Ordering/Shipping
Each whirligig is individually handcrafted and unique. I am happy to discuss the choice of woods (although certain more exotic types may take longer). It typically takes 4–6 weeks for delivery. Prepayment, in full, is required (Paypal preferred).
USPS shipping charges vary according to size of box and distance. You will pay the exact shipping and insurance costs incurred.
While the whirligigs are fully functional (meaning they are wind driven) they are still woodcrafted works of art. Their kinetic aspect is best appreciated by the simply using a finger to turn the propellor!
2017 PA Guild of Craftsmen
Rittenhouse Square Fine Crafts Fair — Spring Show
2017 Featured in article in the Richmond Reflector
2017 Mainline Art Center Award of Excellence in Sculpture
2018 Featured in June/July Issue of American Craft Magazine
Care and Instructions
Your whirligig will provide you with years of enjoyment and delight. Download care instructions to maintain and keep your sculpture spinning.
About the artist
David Winigrad is long time resident of the Philadelphia area. David earned a BFA from Carnegie Mellon University. When not making whirligigs, he works in marketing and advertising. David has two children and a beautiful wife, Maureen.