Domino is a game of small, flat blocks, called tiles or bones, that are arranged on a surface in long lines. Each domino has one side that bears identifying marks or pips, and the other is blank or identically patterned. The pips, which may vary in number and arrangement, distinguish different types of domino. The first player to complete a domino layout wins the game.
Traditionally, dominoes were made from bone or silver lip ocean pearl oyster shell (mother of pearl), ivory, or dark hardwood such as ebony with contrasting black or white pips. Today, dominoes are also available in a wide range of materials including stone (e.g., marble, granite or soapstone); other woods; metals such as brass or pewter; ceramic clay; and even frosted glass. Many of these materials have a more unique, luxurious look and feel than polymer dominoes.
The word “domino” probably derives from the Italian and French verb domanda, meaning “to control,” or the Latin word dominum, meaning “power.” The word became popular in English during the 17th century, though it is believed that the game itself existed earlier. It has been suggested that the game was popular in Europe during the late 1700s and was introduced to England by French prisoners toward the end of that period.
A domino layout is generally completed in a single turn by placing a tile either vertically or horizontally on the edge of a previous tile. Each subsequent tile must be matched with another that either pips the same as the original tile or forms an even total, such as six to five or four to three. Alternatively, two adjacent ends of a double tile can be connected to each other by placing a domino on one end and a matching domino on the other.
Hevesh uses a similar process when creating her domino installations. She begins by brainstorming images or words that relate to the installation’s theme or purpose. She then creates a series of test versions of each section before constructing the final design. She usually films each test run in slow motion so she can make precise corrections when a section doesn’t work correctly.
Dominoes are often used as a teaching tool to demonstrate the principles of cause and effect. This can be done by demonstrating how one simple action, such as knocking over a domino, leads to much larger-and sometimes catastrophic-consequences. It is also a great way to illustrate the importance of following through on commitments and maintaining good communication.
There are also many business applications for the concept of domino. Essentially, a good domino is a task that contributes to the completion of a bigger project or goal. This could include things such as outlining finances, creating a financial plan and executing that plan. Breaking large tasks into smaller, good dominoes can help people stay focused and motivated to achieve their goals. Often, the completion of a good domino will lead to positive ripple effects in the future.
