This project proposes both to investigate how a more open and flexible construction toolkit enables rich learning in mechanical and structural engineering as well as to investigate how introducing engineering concepts through an open-ended art/storytelling project provides for a welcoming entry to the hard sciences. Through using raw materials instead of pre-designed parts, we will investigate the exploration by the learner of design from raw material to part, as well as from part to whole. Through construction, we will examine how builders develop a proficiency in externalizing their ideas about motion, structure, and form, and how reflection upon, discussion about, and re-internalization of this ability to externalize ideas changes the way they think about, talk about, and approach future designs. The constructions are centered around the theme of artistic interactive 3-D storytelling. Through this, we will explore how builders express and incorporate their own interests and stories into their designs, and as a result, become engaged in learning new concepts.