Estimated reading time: 3 minutes
Patience and problem-solving abilities help Dr Sharon Guan of Mentone Family Dentist in Victoria build nanoblock structures and 3D puzzles.
“When I was in dental school at La Trobe University, I was given a placement in the town of Horsham, a four-hour drive from Melbourne. I was extra salty because the timing meant I missed the Ed Sheeran concert to which I had already bought tickets. It was a terrible summer, around 40-plus degrees every day, and the only air conditioning in my house was in the dining room. It was here that I really got into building nanoblock structures. It was my refuge from the heat, the isolation and the pain of the missed Ed Sheeran concert!
“Nanoblock structures are similar to Lego but consist of tiny micropieces that are symmetrical and fit together perfectly. They can be formed into anything from flowers to buildings. I like putting together smaller structures such as traditional Japanese restaurants. It’s possible to place a group of these buildings together and form a small town.
“Some people use tweezers during construction but my fingers are small enough to work unaided. If you’re working on something compact like a Pokemon character, it can be completed in 15 minutes. Larger projects like the Sydney Opera House take a full day.
“I also like putting together 3D puzzles. I recently made one that’s in the shape of a music box. The pieces are cardboard and need to be carefully cut out and glued together. Other 3D puzzles are made of paper and are glued in layers to make furniture or animals. I have one that’s based on Alice in Wonderland which I’m saving for when I have plenty of time to enjoy and complete it.
“When starting a new piece, the first layer is always a struggle because it doesn’t look like anything. As you progress and things start to fall into place, the shape of the item starts to emerge. I find it very rewarding when the last piece is positioned and the final form is revealed.
“I graduated in 2023 and still enjoy the challenge of building these pieces. Both types of puzzles use fine motor skills that relate to the dental work I do. Even though I’m concentrating and carefully following instructions, I find it therapeutic. It’s a great way to relax after a busy day.
“Building nanoblock structures and putting 3D puzzles together is a linear process that allows me to focus so intently that everything else fades away. It’s a very Zen experience.”
