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Designed by John M. Kostick
John Kostick’s Foldable Stars (1965) began as models of mathematical concepts, particularly the structural-relationship principle known as tensegrity (or tensional integrity). “The abstract lines that define geometric forms are indicated by actual physical parts that interact synergetically,” says the designer. “Thus symmetry and structural integrity are the results of the assemblage of simple linear components, tension and compression, push and pull.” Kostick refers to his Stars as “mathematical truths that you can hold in your hand,” and after you pick one up, you’ll have a hard time putting it down. They can be hung or placed on display, but they invite interaction, and they are fun to play with. Handcrafted in Massachusetts, these multi-axis Foldable Stars are made of bronze that will patina beautifully over time. Kostick was granted a patent for his Stars in 1970. Made in U.S.A.
U.S.A. (1942)
Inspiration struck for John Kostick when he attended a lecture by Buckminster Fuller in 1962. Kostick, a physics student at Brandeis University at the time, realized he could illustrate and explore sophisticated mathematical concepts in a straightforward way by building models. He was particularly interested in tensegrity, or tensional integrity, the principle of combined compression and tension giving a structure 3-D ...
Bronze