How to Create Intricate Domino Displays
Domino, a type of tile game, is played by one or more players. It is played by putting tiles on their ends, with each tile bearing a number of spots or pips. The first player to reach a predetermined amount of points wins. The most common domino game involves a double-six set with 28 tiles that are shuffled and placed in a boneyard (or stock), from which each player draws seven tiles. The tiles can then be arranged on-edge in front of the players so they can see their own, but not their opponents’, values.
When a player makes a move that triggers a cascade of dominoes, they may be rewarded with the joy of seeing an entire line fall with the slightest nudge. But it’s also important to note that every piece on a domino’s path must be in place for the effect to occur.
A similar concept applies to learning challenges. Many students who struggle with a specific learning challenge often compensate by developing skills that are easier for them to master. However, this can impact their ability to learn other essential skills. The result is that the student becomes “dominoed,” unable to build a solid foundation of fundamentals.
Hevesh explains that when designing an intricate domino display, each section is tested individually. When it works, she then builds on it. The curved lines and grids that form shapes are built first, then the flat arrangements. Hevesh tests each of these sections in slow motion, using a special camera to capture the results. Once the sections are all perfect, Hevesh then puts them together to create a final masterpiece.
In domino shows, builders compete for the most complex and imaginative domino effects and reactions before a live audience. The process of creating a domino display is a lot like writing a story. Organizing scenes that will logically connect is a key aspect of storytelling. Each scene must advance the story in some way and make clear what the goal is for the hero. The scene can’t be too long or too short, or it will feel out of pace with what came before it and what’s coming up next.
Like dominoes, stories need to be properly paced. They need to be clear and focused, but not so intensely detailed that they are difficult to read or overly repetitive. They also need to have a balance of scenes that are advancing the plot and scenes that are emotionally evoking for readers. And, of course, they need to all work together to deliver a memorable experience to the reader. So, before you publish your story, check to see that the pieces are all in place.