Laban primarily used the octahedron, cube, and icosahedron as movement models. However, geometrical models are usually sold in sets that feature all five Platonic Solids, including the tetrahedron and dodecahedron.
For movement study purposes, you need “skeletal” models; that is, models without solid faces. Skeletal models consist only of edges and corners, such as the Platonic Solids shown in the accompanying illustration. These models make it possible to see into the interior space of these regular three-dimensional forms.
You can find kits for building skeletal polyhedral among educational children’s toys, such as Zometool. Etsy also seems to sell various Platonic Solid models to be assembled. Kits can vary in price, from modest to costly.
One less expensive option I have found is the book, Magic Edges #12 – a kit for constructing skeletal Platonic Solids with paper and glue – available on Amazon.
For the upcoming MoveScape workshop “Harmonics of Space,” however, a more durable skeletal icosahedron is recommended. Find out more in the next blog.