Saila Puranen/Heureka
Bestiarium Construendum becomes Curious Creatures
Bestiarium Construendum – Curious Creatures exhibition consists of 36 pieces of a large sculpture puzzle. The pieces, although large, are lightweight and can be magnetically attached to one another to form different curious creatures, from animals or people to mythological or imaginary beings.
Bestiarium Construendum is the creation of the Russian-Finnish Artist Alexander Reichstein (b. 1957). In 2008, he was awarded the State Award for Children’s Culture for his art, which is intended for the interest of both young and old, and incorporates both play and imagination.
Bestiarium Construendum was first displayed in 2004 at the Amos Anderson Art Museum, and through co-operation with Heureka, the exhibition is now being created anew; using the existing moulds for the sculpture pieces, additional pieces of the construction series can be made if necessary. Curious Creatures has already sparked interest at science centres all around the world.
The idea for Bestiarium Construendum originated during Alexander Reichstein’s travels in Rome, when he observed the crumbled pieces of ancient sculptures. In his mind he began to imagine a mythical building site in which one could create a nearly endless number of combinations using the animal and human puzzle pieces. The selection and design of the dimensions, joints and suitable body parts turned out to be a considerable challenge.
Mythological beings, which human imagination creates from natural observations, are part of history and culture worldwide. In addition to folklore and art, they are brought to life through, for example, decorative architectural themes or company logos.
Curious Creatures will be on display at Heureka for a period of at least one year.
Updated 24.3.2009/KT
