The Heureka sculpture, ironically named “I’ve got it!” in Greek, embodies a whimsical critique of consumerism in industrial societies. This creation was made in 1964 by the artist Jean Tinguely. It was made out of scrap metal and everyday objects and presents a nonsensical machine, a complex configuration of tubes, wheels, and motors.

Tinguely, influenced by Nouveau Réalisme and Dadaism, aimed to infuse humor and challenge societal norms through his kinetic artworks. Heureka, a part of Tinguely’s series of meta mechanics, represents the absurdity of modernity. Akin to his sculpture “Homage to New York,” which intentionally self-destructed, Heureka stands as a monument to futility and industrial mockery.

Originally showcased at the Swiss National Exhibition in Lausanne, it is now in Zurich. The Heureka sculpture or machine(whatever you want to call it) is located in Seefeldquoi. Its location is quite close to the Chinese gardens, so if you decide to take a look, make sure to visit them as well.