Domino is a game of skill and strategy. A set of dominoes consists of 28 tiles, seven doubles (with same number on both ends from double blank to double six) and 21 singles (different numbers on each end or a number and a blank).
The tiles have an arrangement of dots, or “pips,” that identify the piece on one face. The other face is either blank or identically patterned, and the pieces are connected by lines or ridges so that each may be tripped over by another. The game is played on a large table or other flat surface, with players sitting around the edge. The player who plays the first tile, or makes a “set,” begins the game. Various types of games can be played with the same domino set, but most games fall into one of four categories: blocking games, scoring games, and trick-taking games. Blocking games, in which the goal is to prevent opponents from making a play, are especially popular. These are largely adaptations of card games and were once used to circumvent religious proscriptions against playing cards. Trick-taking games, in which the goal is to gain points by taking possession of a set, are also popular.
Hevesh is a master of these games, creating mind-blowing setups that take several nail-biting minutes to fall. Her work has been featured in a number of movies, TV shows, and events, including a music album launch for Katy Perry. Hevesh follows a version of the engineering-design process when planning her installations, starting with a theme or purpose and brainstorming images or words that might go with it.
Once a domino is played, the potential energy stored in its pips converts to kinetic energy, which causes it to push on the next domino in the line and cause it to fall. The force exerted continues to travel down the line, until all of the dominoes have fallen, and the final piece is left standing on its own.
Dominoes are available in many materials, with some sets of the classic style made from ivory, mother-of-pearl, silver lip ocean pearl oyster shell (mother of pearl), or a dark hardwood such as ebony, with black or white pips inlaid or painted on. Some modern sets are made from polymer clay, which has the advantage of being inexpensive and durable.
The word domino derives from the Latin for “flying stone,” referring to its ability to be thrown across a gap or obstacle, as if it were a small pebble or a piece of paper. As with paper, dominoes are easily destroyed by rough handling or overuse, and should be carefully stored in a box or other container. In addition, it is important to keep a domino set clean. Dirty tiles can affect the game’s accuracy, preventing it from falling correctly or allowing the pieces to become stuck together. Using a cloth, soap, or water to wipe down the tiles is recommended. In some cases, it may be necessary to use a small amount of rubbing alcohol to remove stubborn dirt from the surface of the tiles.