Theo Jansen's Uminami

Mammals, serpents, or even creatures that you couldn't name because they were only born in their creator's imagination: they are the Strandbeest ("beach beast" in Dutch) by the artist Theo Jansen. Having studied physics, Jansen decided to put some of its principles in action and design works of art that can move by themselves, making use of the wind and levers. The Theo Jansen's Uminami is a miniature version of one of these works that you can build at home.

Uminami is a made-up word by a five-year-old Japanese boy when the original, caterpillar-like machine first appeared at an exhibition held in Mie Prefecture. The version that you create with Theo Jansen's Uminami, like the much bigger original, moves by undulating its body when pulled from one side or the other. Using common household tools, you can make an exact replica of the real Uminami. If you also get the Theo Jansen's Mini Strandbeest kit, which is sold separately, you can make the Uminami walk using the power of the wind!

Specs and Features:

• Created by Dutch artist Theo Jansen
• Does not need batteries
• Can be combined with Theo Jansen's Mini Strandbeest (sold separately)
• Some common household tools needed (scissors, box cutter, etc.)
• Instructions: Japanese, English