Double-Sided Wooden Puzzle with 74 Cosmic Objects and a Guidebook to 180+ Captivating Space Facts.
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In the early stages of Palmaris Puzzles arose a vision to craft something truly unprecedented in the realm of wooden jigsaw puzzles. October 2022 marked the inception of this grand venture, with the pioneering thought of creating a double-sided puzzle bearing no top or bottom — a canvas that could facilitate a group of puzzle enthusiasts working in unison from all angles, drawn into interconnected worlds that resonate both front and back, a fusion where art meets innovation.
The search for the quintessential artwork led me to reach out to Susan Schroder, an artist known for her distinctive style that harmonizes impeccably with the unique vision harboured. Susan was briefed about the conceptual framework, a representation of the four seasons melded seamlessly with a central tree or portal acting as the binding force, manifesting a canvas that stands timeless and retains its narrative, regardless of its orientation.
Susan embraced the ambitious challenge with grace, dedicating months to craft an image that married artistry with vision. The creative process blossomed publicly with glimpses of feminine figures representing different seasons, creating a tapestry of anticipation and mystery. The ultimate revelation of the final piece was nothing short of an artistic renaissance, a vivid representation that transcended the envisioned masterpiece, aptly christened “The Four Seasons Portal”, a name that echoed the vibrancy and thematic resonance of the artwork.
Once the canvas was set, it was time to chisel the path forward, embarking on the rigorous journey of conceptualizing the puzzle design — a journey that endured several drastic changes to ensure the envisioned perfection was met. As a creator, my aspirations soared high, envisioning an augmented reality part that would elevate the puzzle experience to a new dimension. However, the complexities and financial difficulties led to a rechanneling of this vigour towards an educational component.
The stars then aligned to pave the way for a subject close to my heart since childhood — the majestic cosmos, a frontier that epitomized the zenith of human exploration and sacrifice, a realm that promised advancement for the generations to come. This reverence for space led to the birth of the educational component, a challenge welcomed with open arms, though with an acknowledgment of the limited expertise in the vast domain of space exploration.
Undeterred, I embarked on a scholarly expedition, diving into the profound depths of space literature encompassing works such as “National Geographic Space Atlas” by James Trefil, “Hubble Legacy” by Jim Bell, and “NightWatch” by Terence Dickinson, coupled with extensive research through space agencies’ resources and enthusiasts’ websites. This journey was fueled by a limitless curiosity, a notable influence being the interactive Solar System on NASA’s website that beckoned hours of immersive exploration, setting a gold standard for space educational resources.
The profound engagement spurred the creation of a companion booklet, a meticulous endeavour that spanned several months, paralleling the puzzle design process. The envisioned booklet was not a mere repository of general knowledge but a treasure trove of intriguing, less-known facts, offering a unique and deep insight into the vast cosmos. A compilation of over 180 fascinating facts about space was distilled into a 56-page booklet, a compelling snapshot of the extensive discoveries and yet just the tip of the iceberg.
As I look back at the labour of love and dedication poured into this project for nearly 11 months, it’s a rich tapestry of exploration, learning, and manifestation of a dream. It has been a path with challenges, yet driven by an undying passion to create something truly remarkable, something that incites curiosity and wonder.
As I present this creation to our backers, it is not just a puzzle but an odyssey of discovery, a portal that invites you to journey through the dynamic ballet of seasons while nurturing a deeper understanding and appreciation for the cosmos. With a heart brimming with gratitude and expectation, I invite you to experience the “Four Seasons Portal,” a journey of curiosity, knowledge, and breathtaking beauty conjured from pieces of wood and inspired by the artistic and cosmic wonders that envelop us.
