Tuesday, 5-15-08:
Success!
After doing some initial tests with the flex wire, I found out that the amount of wire decrease is only about 10% of the wire length (using a 6" wire) when charged with a current of 2750 mA. So to increase the area of influence that the flex wire could control, I did some more testing with a simple lever system. I was worried that the flex wire would not have enough force to move anything with the lever system, but luckily that was not the case.
I am now able to move the lever arm vertically over a range of approx. 5"-- well within the range I need. Moreover, the flexwire has a considerable amount of force to it, I added weight to the end of the 1.5' lever arm and the 5" flex wire lifted it up, no problem. I am now convinced that the flex wire will be both forceful enough and have enough range to make the sculpture elements move.
I was also very satisfied in the movement of the wire. The movement was very organic and smooth, and the movement could be refined even more by controlling the voltage with PWM. The most striking thing about the movement is that it is completely quiet. The elegant and fluid movement of the wire, along with the sculptural capabilites and quietness, leaves me to the conclusion that the wire is a superior choice to motors in this project.

Wednesday, 5-9-08:
Launch of journal site!
Lots of important stuff to come. For now, enjoy some pictures: