‘perpetual storytelling apparatus’ by julis von bismarck and benjamin maus
the ‘perpetual storytelling appartus’ by german artists julius von bismarck and benjamin maus is a machine that draws a never-ending string of patent drawings into an illustrative narrative.
with an archive of over 7 million drawings and 22 million references, the apparatus translates text into relevant, visual vocabulary. it is capable of free-associating, albeit mechanically, creating a form of subtext by finding possible similarities between arbitary patents. what emerges is a interwoven story of visual and technical development.
the apparatus draws patents
diagram of how the apparatus works
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julius von bismarck (3)
Mar 03, 2012
Dec 13, 2011
Mar 10, 2026bureau betak installs towering cranes, rendered in primary colors, that fill the vast nave beneath the iron-and-glass dome.
connections: +100
Mar 08, 2026mineral pigments and recycled materials generate a color palette derived from urban village architecture.
Mar 04, 2026two recessed ‘eyes’ introduce a subtle anthropomorphic presence.
connections: +2070
Feb 24, 2026the stepped levels create measurable depth, and their edges cast controlled shadows that function as precise visual guides.
connections: +450
