Automata Definitions

I struggled for about a year trying to find an acceptable definition for Automata.  It was a good struggle, and very enlightening.  In the end I realized that there is not a single definition, there are many.  And I recognized that the word ‘contemporary’ was an important element when discussing the definition of Automata.

I also felt that it was not wrong for me to develop my own personal definition…a definition that would help guide me as I created my automata.

Here are five definitions of Automata, with my own personal (for my own work) definition at the top.

• Jim Coffee, March 2025
  This is my personal definition.  I envision myself building to this definition:
  • An automaton is ART.  It comes from my heart.
  • The automaton should trigger positive feelings. This is a very important segment of my definition.
  • An automaton portrays a moment or moments, it is a short story.
  • Contained within the automaton is at least one sentient being. 
  • An automaton is a physical moving machine that is made up of whatever materials I choose.  
  • An automaton is powered by any means available.
  • The automaton is to be constructed with serviceability and longevity in mind.
     
• Automata Magazine Online Forum, March 2025
  • What are Automata?  Because of their diversity, automata are difficult to define. Here is our loose definition of them: “Machines that replicate human, animal, or inanimate objects’ motions, capabilities, and/or everyday tasks. These can be hand cranked, motor driven, or computer controlled.”   This definition may be expanded as time flows.
     
• Automata Magazine, March 2025
  • What is an automaton?
    An automaton (plural, automata) is a representational kinetic sculpture. It contains moving human or animal figures or recognizable inanimate objects from real life, and is mechanically driven, either by a hand crank or motor.
  • In the early days, the goal of the automata artist was to replicate life as closely as possible. With the advent of contemporary automata, that goal has shifted somewhat. Humor, whimsicality, and fanciful situations have come to the fore. Still, automata, old and new, share certain characteristics and, regardless of their builders’ backgrounds, are expressions of artistic endeavor.
     
• From Google Gemini.  March 2025
  •    The term “automata” (plural of “automaton”) in the context of historical mechanical devices refers to:
  • A relatively self-operating machine, or control mechanism designed to automatically follow a predetermined sequence of operations or respond to encoded instructions.
  • These machines are often designed to resemble humans or animals and perform a set of actions repetitively.
  • They are typically powered by mechanical means like clockwork, water, steam, or falling weights.
  • The word “automaton” itself comes from the Greek word “automatos,” meaning “self-acting” or “self-moving.”
  • Historically, automata have been created for various purposes, including entertainment, education, and even as demonstrations of scientific principles.
  • They represent a fascinating intersection of art, engineering, and mechanics throughout history.
     
• ChatGPT. March 2025
  • Automata (plural of automaton) are self-operating machines or mechanical devices designed to follow a predetermined sequence of operations or respond to specific inputs. These machines often mimic human, animal, or abstract movements through intricate mechanical systems of gears, cams, levers, and linkages.
  • Historically, automata have been created for artistic, entertainment, scientific, and even religious purposes. They have been developed since ancient times, with notable examples from ancient Greece, medieval Islamic inventors, Renaissance artisans, and 18th–19th century European craftsmen.
  • In the context of kinetic art, automata are often whimsical, thought-provoking, or mesmerizing mechanical sculptures that engage viewers through motion. Unlike purely functional machines, artistic automata emphasize aesthetics, storytelling, and craftsmanship, blending engineering with creative expression.