“Growing Objects” is a series of kinetic sculptures that illustrate natural growth processes. Inspired by 19th century zoetropes, these interactive sculptures consist of 3D printed objects that when spun and illuminated animate the development of complex forms; when still, they allow the viewer to examine each step of the growth process. Our zoetropes reimagine one of the earliest ancestors of modern day cinema and animation, the 19th century optical toys: the phenokistoscope, zoetrope and praxinoscope. We’re fascinated by

these devices because they are fundamentally interactive and participatory, enabling the viewer

to deconstruct the animation process. We are adapting this kinetic apparatus to illustrate and

explain our algorithmic art process via 3D printing. Thus far, the series consists of four zoetropes. Each one depicts one of our generative design

systems which grow form based on a natural process.

1 - hyphae based on how vein networks form in leaves.

2 - laplacian based on how branching crystals grow by dendritic solidification

3 - reaction based on reaction-diffusion, a chemical signalling process that can explain the

emergence of dot and stripes patterns on the skins and shells of animals

4 - morphostem based on how differential surface growth shapes the blooming of flowers and

ruffling of leaves

 

Nervous System is a generative design studio that works at the intersection of science, art, and  technology. Designers Jessica Rosenkrantz and Jesse Louis-Rosenberg create using a novel  process that employs computer simulation to generate designs and digital fabrication to realize products. Drawing inspiration from natural phenomena, they write computer programs based on processes and patterns found in nature and use those programs to create unique and affordable art, jewelry, and housewares.