In 2017, to commemorate the centennial of Albert Einstein's General Theory of Relativity, the Genius 100 Foundation embarked on an ambitious project: creating "Genius: 100 Visions of the Future," the world's first 3D-printed book. This groundbreaking endeavour not only celebrated Einstein's legacy but also showcased the innovative spirit of the Genius 100 community.
Design and Concept
Renowned industrial designer, artist, and architect Ron Arad was commissioned to bring this visionary project to life. Arad's design featured 100 single-sided pages, each laser-cut in the silhouette of Einstein, symbolizing the profound impact of his contributions to science and humanity. Each page contained a one-page essay from one of 100 global visionaries, including Nobel laureates, artists, scientists, and thought leaders, sharing their insights and aspirations for the future.
Printing the Prototype in Space
Taking the project a step further, the team decided to produce the prototype in space, symbolizing humanity's relentless pursuit of knowledge and exploration. This endeavor was coordinated by Japanese astronaut Soichi Noguchi and the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA). The prototype was printed using a Made in Space 3D printer aboard the International Space Station (ISS), marking a significant milestone as the first book to be 3D-printed in zero gravity.
Production and Specifications
The final production of the book was undertaken by Digits2Widgets, a London-based 3D printing service bureau. Utilizing an EOS P 396 selective laser sintering (SLS) 3D printer, the book was meticulously crafted to measure 40 cm in length, 30 cm in width, and 15 cm in thickness. The limited edition comprised 300 copies, each embodying a fusion of art, technology, and visionary thought.
Unveiling and Reception
The book was officially unveiled on September 10, 2017, at the "Dinner of the Century" event in Montreal, part of a yearlong commemoration in collaboration with Guy Laliberté’s Lune Rouge project. The event brought together luminaries from various fields, reflecting the diverse and interdisciplinary nature of the Genius 100 community.
Legacy and Impact
"Genius: 100 Visions of the Future" stands as a testament to human creativity and the boundless possibilities of technology. By integrating visionary ideas with cutting-edge 3D printing technology, the project not only honoured Einstein's legacy but also inspired future generations to envision and work towards a better future.
For a visual overview of this groundbreaking project, you can watch the following video: