Vortex

Twelve rods held in place by three rubber bands wrapped tightly around the middle.

Designed and initially constructed in August 2010; this instance constructed in July 2012.

This is a simpler incarnation of the idea from Black Hole. Here, three central rubber bands pull 12 rods inward, forcing this "spiraling" structure with cubic symmetry. Each rod touches six others.

See if you can build a Vortex of your own! I found these lollipop sticks at a craft store (specifically Michaels), but other materials are certainly possible, including pens, chopsticks, or toothbrushes. I will soon post a how-to on this page, but give it a try in the meantime!