JIX: A Multifunctional Construction Kit for Creative Minds

Unleash Your Imagination with JIX Connectors and Drinking Straws

JIX is a construction kit created by New York-based visual artist and product designer, Patrick Martinez. It is comprised of small modular elements that are specifically designed to allow standard drinking straws to be connected together, in order to create a wide variety of constructions.

JIX is not your ordinary construction kit. With its unique connectors and limitless possibilities, it offers a new way to unleash your creativity and build anything you can imagine. Whether you want to create ambitious room-sized structures or intricate table-top sculptures, JIX provides the tools to bring your ideas to life.

The JIX connectors come in flat grids that easily snap apart, intersect, and lock into place. They can be used as single elements or snapped together to create 3-D star shapes, allowing for more complex structures. All you need to do is add drinking straws and start building.

Patrick Martinez, the mastermind behind JIX, explains his inspiration for the design: "My interest in product design is closely related to my artistic practice and stems originally from a question on the status and methods of distribution of objects and artworks. I wanted to create a mass-produceable product that would implement my artistic vision and extend the project to other people."

What sets JIX apart from other construction kits is its versatility. It can be used to create not only spectacular art and interior design projects but also functional furniture and even educational toys. The possibilities are endless.

During the development of JIX, Martinez faced several challenges. He experimented with different connector shapes and explored the formal possibilities of cutting, bending, and interlacing the straws. The early prototypes of the connectors were complex, but he eventually simplified the design to make it suitable for mass production.

JIX is made of recyclable post-industrial plastic, reflecting Martinez's commitment to sustainability. Each package contains five grids, with 25 elements in total. The compact dimensions of the package make it easy to store and transport.

The JIX project started in 2009 and was completed in November 2012 in New York. Since then, it has been showcased in galleries, museums, and trade shows around the world, receiving accolades for its innovative design. It was awarded the Silver A' Design Award in the Toys, Games, and Hobby Products category in 2014.

So, if you're looking for a construction kit that goes beyond the ordinary, JIX is the perfect choice. Unleash your imagination, explore the possibilities, and create something truly unique with JIX connectors and drinking straws.


Project Details and Credits

Project Designers: Patrick Martinez
Image Credits: Image #1: Photographer Thomas Gerhardt, JIX product image, 2013. Image #2: Photographer Patrick Martinez, JIX hut, 2012. Image #3: Photographer Patrick Martinez, JIX installation, LFNY Gala, 2013. Images #4: Photographer Etienne Frossard, JIX installation, CMA, 2013. Images #5: Photographer Etienne Frossard, JIX booth, NY NOW, Accent on design, 2013.
Project Team Members: Designer: Patrick Martinez Technical support: Thomas Gerhardt
Project Name: JIX
Project Client: Patrick Martinez


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