Artist's report on a remarkable installation project built mostly of simple salvage: hardware, tape, glue fabric, tubing and cardboard, during a two-week residency at The LAB Gallery in San Francisco's historic mission district. The project began with journaling and led to a series of video interviews with volunteers, who identified a larger view of cultural disconnection. These interviews served as the 'fuel' and back-story for the actual form and function of the physical pieces. The antithesis of 'slick', the Wicked Engine emphasized dreamlike movement and imperfection. Visitors to the gallery were encouraged to add their wishes to the engine and to attend a performance finale created by four talented local actors in collaboration with the engine and the artist, Corey Hitchcock.