Born in 1901 in Christchurch, New Zealand, Len Lye went on to become a key figure in twentieth-century art, known particularly for his pioneering experimental animations and kinetic sculptures. After studying in Australia, he moved to London in 1926. In 1944 he immigrated to the United States, where he became involved with the avant-garde art movement in New York. Later in life his focus shifted to painting and sculpture. Before passing away in 1980 he established the Len Lye Foundation in New Plymouth, New Zealand. The foundation continues to manage and make available for viewing and research an extensive collection of his artwork and documents.