Kura Curiosa is a unique, evolving collection of modular art, inspired by the concept of a futuristic cabinet of curiosities.
The project offers both free-to-3D-print artworks and exclusive pieces for sale. Elements are categorized into Vexels, Cores, Sentries, Specimens, and more.
The basic unit is a Vexel frame designed to house various curiosa, while larger artworks can span multiple Vexels, allowing endless customization.
There are no strict rules—you can print curiosa in any material or color, though I often introduce them in white or gray within black Vexels.
Vexels are the fundamental building blocks of Kura Curiosa. They are modular frames that connect to each other, designed to house various Specimens.
Start by downloading your first Vexel—beginning with the central Vexel allows for expansion in every direction at your own pace.
Visit this link to access the free Basic Vexel Set 3D files and begin your journey of customization and exploration. You can then browse the collection and choose your first Specimen to print and house in your Vexel. From there, expand your collection in any direction to complete the basic 3x3 set with different contents like Specimens, Sentries, or Cores.
I recommend starting with PLA due to its ease of use and reliability. With a 0.4mm nozzle, the default tolerances should fit perfectly. Feel free to experiment with other materials to achieve different effects!
While I primarily work with black, white, and gray, you can choose your own colors to personalize your creations.
Experiment with different top-fill patterns, such as Hilbert Curve, Concentric, or Monotonic, and explore endless configurations. Each Vexel includes holes on the back sides for securing with M3x8 screws and square nuts for added stability. The corners of the basic set feature 4mm holes for wall mounting or attaching hooks and rope, allowing you to hang the set.
You’re not limited to the 3x3 set. As Kura Curiosa continues to expand with new modules regularly, the possibilities are endless. Build a giant interconnected Kura, arrange multiple 3x3 sets, or simply print and frame a single Vexel—the choice is yours.
At the core of Kura Curiosa lies a transformative exploration of art’s democratization, drawing from Walter Benjamin’s reflections on the cult versus exhibition value of art. The paradox between the unique, almost sacred status of original artworks and the widespread accessibility brought about by mechanical reproduction has long fascinated me.
Historically, the democratization of art has often manifested as the creation of more affordable replicas—prints, lithographs, and other reproductions. While these methods undoubtedly make art more accessible, they also tend to dilute the unique essence of the original piece. I would go further by saying that they foster a one-sided relationship between the artist and the audience as “consumers.” In this traditional model, the person who buys the copy remains a passive recipient of the artist’s vision, never truly engaging with the creative process.
In Kura Curiosa, the line between artist and audience blurs as technology offers new paradigms for interaction. By providing 3D-printable files, we invite the audience to move from passive consumers to active creators—each maker bringing their unique touch to the work. This isn’t just art to be viewed; it’s modular and interactive, meant to be recreated and reimagined, reflecting a true democratization of the creative process. The collection grows not only through replication but through endless personalization as well, fostering a dynamic collaboration between artist and audience.
