I have a small collection of tin-toys. Those type of toys, for me, represent a the starting point of technology-enabled toys. All items in my tiny collection use a power cord to perform a certain movement. It isn’t a direct response to my actions, but it definitely brings some magic element. A hidden engine that makes them walk, run, blow, etc. They are more automata then interactive toys. But the techno-mechanical principle within them draws my attention. I keep thinking about the fun, the play experience, they offered and why they became so popular in their time.
Reading further about atomata (or automatons, plural of automaton) I recalled one of the most beautiful scene that I have ever seen. The “Presépio do Pipiripal” is a huge moving diorama. Inspired by the catholic myth, Raimundo Machado de Azeredo, started to build his small world in 1906 (!), featuring moving puppets made out papier-marche, recreating steps of Jesus’s life and other daily activities. The whole scenario is activated by only one motor and its power is transferred from puppet to puppet by a myriad of hidden threads and wooden wheels. Pipiripal is an automata show still running today under protection of the IPHAN (National Institute of Historic and Artistic Patrimony), Brazil. I live memory in my mind. It isn’t directly toy related, but the experience offered is magical for toddlers and grown-ups.
Presepio do Pipiripau, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
WHY: I am thinking more and more on toys that invite physical movements as a way of interaction. Thinking it over I reminded the Piripipau. A good reference for one who is interested in automata is the cabaret.co.uk website. It features artists, exhibitions and a good blog on toys.
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