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: 18" x 12" rectangle
material: 1/4" birch plywood
number of pieces: approximately 410
packaging:kraft paper box with color image

To create the organic shape of the pieces, we designed a system 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.

Featured Artist - Jonathan McCabe
This series features art by Jonathan McCabe which combines multiple scales of reaction diffusion with fluid flow to create a kaleidoscopic landscape of colors and patterns.

Featured Whimsies
Each puzzle comes with around 15 special figural pieces. These include pieces from our "Microscopic Life" set with algae, diatoms, radiolarians, and other minuscule creatures; as well as our "Ocean" and "Land" sets, which include everything from leafy sea dragons and scuba divers to cats and bumblebees. A key to identifying the whimsies is available here.

For more information visit the Generative Jigsaws Project Page