M. C. Escher Kaleidocycles

M. C. Escher ® Kaleidocycles:

An Illustrated Book and 17 Fun-to-Assemble Three-Dimensional Models

[Box Set]

 Creator Doris Schattschneider

Designer Wallace Walker

Publisher Pomegranate

Paperback 48 pages

Simply put, this is the only kit of its kind. Mathematics or art? Dutch graphic artist M. C. Escher (1898-1972) "was a genius of imagination, a skilled graphic craftsman, but the key to many of his surprising effects is mathematics." Kaleidocycles takes you on a fascinating journey through graphic art and geometry.

The book is arranged into six sections.

1. Acknowledgments

2. In Three Dimensions: Extensions of M. C. Escher's Art

Geometric Solids, Kaleidocycles, Repeating Designs, Surface Design of Solids, Surface Design of Kaleidocycles, Coloring the Designs

3. Notes on the Models - Geometric Solids and Kaleidocycles

4. Instructions for Assembly of Models

5. Sources for More Information

6. Authors

You will be amazed as you explore the form, design and color of the 6 geometric solids (tetrahedron, octahedron, icosahedron, cube, dodecahedron, cuboctahedron) and 11 Kaleidocycles (hexagonal, square, twisted). You learn by assembling, examining and playing with the models. "A Kaleidocycle is a closed chain of tetrahedra that can cycle endlessly through a center hole." It's a moving paper sculpture. Check out the video below!

I tucked my Escher book under my arm on the way to a doctor's appointment, something to do in case I had to wait. To my surprise Dr W knew of Escher's work, was very interested and even asked to browse my book! He was thinking about assembling the kit with his son. What a brilliant idea!

M. C. Escher ® Kaleidocycles: An Illustrated Book and 17 Fun-to-Assemble Three-Dimensional Models is available at pomegranate.com for US$24.95. You may also purchase an extra set of the 17 models for each additional participant. Pomegranate ships throughout Canada, the United States and world. For more Escher art publications please visit Pomegrante's M. C. Escher Gallery.

Square Kaleidocycle Video