Mechanical Flipbook collaborated with artist and architect Matthew Mazzotta to create a custom interactive flipbook installation for his exhibition at the American Pavilion during the 2025 Venice Architecture Biennale.

The installation featured a custom Flipbook Cabinet with six mechanical flipbooks (two large and four small) that animated Mazzotta's community-based projects, Open House and Storefront Theater. Designed for public participation, visitors helped bring the artwork to life through hand-powered interaction.

The Challenge

The exhibition space provided no electrical power, requiring the installation to operate entirely without line power or batteries while remaining reliable and engaging for visitors.

The Solution

We developed a custom self-powered system using hand-cranked generators and super-capacitors. Visitors generate the electricity needed to power the flipbooks, transforming a technical challenge into an interactive experience.

By physically powering the installation, visitors become active participants in the artwork, creating a direct connection between action, energy, and storytelling.

The Result

The completed installation combined six custom mechanical flipbooks with a fully self-powered energy system, creating a memorable hands-on experience that reflects Mazzotta's focus on community engagement and civic participation.

Mechanical Flipbook traveled to Venice to install the project on-site, where it was exhibited in the American Pavilion as part of the 2025 Venice Architecture Biennale.

Project Details

Client: Matthew Mazzotta

Location: American Pavilion, Venice Architecture Biennale 2025, Venice, Italy

Design & Fabrication: Mechanical Flipbook

Video Documentation: Marco Lombardini & Francesca Pari, MACO FILM

Learn More: www.matthewmazzotta.com