Jigsaw puzzles for the 21st century! Each generative puzzle is a one of a kind creation with unique art and pieces. Our goal was to marry the artistry of traditional, hand-crafted jigsaw puzzles with the possibilities of new technologies. Custom software simulates crystal growth to create an organic interlocking pattern. Our laser cutter translates this into a unique set of plywood pieces. We collaborated with contemporary digital artists who created engaging artwork for the puzzles.

• size: 7.75" circle
• material: 1/4" birch plywood
• number of pieces: approximately 80
• packaging: black box with unique label

About Nervous System puzzles:  Jigsaw puzzles for the 21st century! Each generative puzzle is a one of a kind creation with unique pieces. The goal was to marry the artistry of traditional, hand-crafted jigsaw puzzles with the possibilities of new technologies. Custom software simulates crystal growth to create an organic interlocking pattern. Laser cuts translate this into a unique set of plywood pieces. These blank, image-less puzzles are extra challenging to assemble and also highlight the natural beauty of the wood.

To create the organic shape of the pieces, a system was designed based the simulation of dendritic solidification, a crystal growth process similar to the formation of snowflakes that occurs in supercooled solutions of certain metallic alloys. By varying the parameter space, it can produce a variety of cut styles.