Ep 9. Theo Jansen Creates New Creatures
Theo Jansen, an artist from the Netherlands, creates incredible kinetic sculptures that look like creatures from another world. In this episode of TEDTalks: For Kids, Jansen introduces us to his incredible creations and explains the science behind their movements.
He begins by showing us a video of one of his sculptures, a massive creature that looks like a cross between a giant caterpillar and a jellyfish, moving along the beach propelled only by the wind. Jansen explains that these sculptures, which he calls "Strandbeests," are made from PVC pipes and sail fabric, and are modelled after creatures he sees in his imagination.
Jansen's ultimate goal is to create creatures that can walk on their own, without being propelled by the wind. To do this, he has developed a series of increasingly complex mechanisms that allow his sculptures to move in a lifelike way.
One of the most interesting things about Jansen's sculptures is the way that they store and release energy. Each sculpture has dozens of plastic bottles attached to its frame, which fill with air as the sculpture moves. When the sculpture stops moving, the air pressure in the bottles serves as a sort of "gas pedal," allowing the sculpture to start moving again.
Jansen also explains how he has implemented feedback systems into his sculptures, allowing them to navigate their surroundings and even avoid obstacles. He shows us a smaller version of one of his sculptures, which has a sensor that causes it to turn around if it comes into contact with an object.
Throughout the episode, Jansen emphasizes the importance of embracing failure and learning from mistakes. He explains that his first attempts at creating kinetic sculptures were less than successful, but that each failure taught him something new. He encourages the viewer to experiment and take risks, even if it means making mistakes along the way.
The episode concludes with Jansen showing us some of his latest creations, including a giant "Strandbeest" that can walk on its own, and a smaller creature that can navigate its surroundings without any input from Jansen.
Overall, Theo Jansen's innovative use of materials and technology to create lifelike sculptures is a fascinating glimpse into the world of kinetic art. This episode of TEDTalks: For Kids is sure to inspire young viewers to embrace their creativity and explore the boundaries of what is possible.