34 Years Of Strandbeest Evolution
Veritasium
Dec 7, 2024
Artist Theo Jansen treats kinetic sculpture as a branch of biology, using evolutionary algorithms to define the 'genetic code' of his wind-powered Strandbeests. By constraining his designs to basic materials and overcoming environmental obstacles, he aims to create a self-sustaining mechanical species capable of protecting the Netherlands from rising sea levels.
Key insight: To achieve smooth locomotion without sensors, Jansen used an evolutionary simulation process over months, resulting in 13 'holy numbers'—a specific set of proportions for his linkage joints that serve as the fundamental DNA for almost every Strandbeest built.
