"The Curious Planet" adapts dandelion sphere research to monumental scale at Mulva Cultural Center. The spherical structure translates polyhedral branching principles into a public artwork that visitors can observe from multiple perspectives. The geometric framework derives from vector arrangements studied in earlier dandelion research, now scaled and engineered for permanent outdoor installation. The work continues Eliasson's exploration of cosmic geometries, here manifested through mathematical branching systems that suggest both microscopic networks and astronomical structures. Positioned at the cultural center, the sculpture serves as landmark and contemplation point.
Research: The sculpture adapts principles from the initial dandelion sphere research-recursive polyhedral branching where each vertex generates child polyhedra through mathematically controlled generations. The original explorations investigated how simple recursive rules create complex spatial networks, with exponential growth managed through scale factors and connection constraints. This foundational research established various configurations with rotational symmetries, each producing distinct visual densities and structural patterns. The Curious Planet translates one of these dandelion sphere variations to monumental scale, maintaining the mathematical relationships while adapting to architectural requirements.
Photography: Studio Olafur Eliasson
