Dandelion Sphere No.15 represents the initial exploration of branching polyhedra, though exhibited years after its creation. The structure employs five layers of geometric growth, each polyhedron spawning new forms at its vertices. This recursive branching creates exponential complexity-starting from a single seed polyhedron, the system expands through mathematically controlled generations. Number 15 in the series indicates specific parametric choices within the broader framework. The work joins the Intersections exhibition at Seattle Universal Math Museum, a venue dedicated to making mathematical concepts tangible through art. The polyamide 3D print captures the delicate balance between structural density and visual clarity, each branch visible yet part of an integrated whole. The research investigates how simple recursive rules generate complex spatial networks, connecting to natural branching phenomena without direct biomimicry.
Research: The Dandelion Sphere series explores recursive polyhedral branching. Each vertex of a parent polyhedron generates a child polyhedron, scaled and oriented according to mathematical rules. Five generations create the final form, with exponential growth controlled through scale factors and connection constraints. The computational challenge involves collision detection between branches and maintaining printable connections at increasingly fine scales. Configuration 15 balances visual density against structural viability for polyamide sintering.
Photography: Phillip C. Reiner
