Modern Origami A Guide to the Art of Paper Folding
Modern Origami A Guide to the Art of Paper Folding
Modern Origami A Guide to the Art of Paper Folding - Origami is a traditional Japanese art form that has been around for centuries. However, with the rise of modern origamists, the art form has evolved and changed to become a recognized design meant to be seen and appreciated. Unlike traditional origami, which was passed down orally, modern origamists believe that the folding sequences should be viewed as intellectual property, with many going as far as patenting their designs.
One of the most important aspects of modern origami is that the models can be easily reproduced. The diagrams of the folding sequence correspond to the models themselves, and having the complete sequence in the exact order is vital to the folder who needs to recreate the model the way it was meant to be. Unlike traditional origami, modern origamists prefer to use only Origami paper, with no glue or scissors. Using more than one sheet of paper is acceptable only if all the sheets of paper are the same size, and no glue is used in the process.
In the 1950s and 60s, a group of creators and folders established an international origami group to promote the popularity of origami. This group went on to form local and national organizations and published the models of American, Japanese, and European designers.
While mathematicians and modern origamists view origami as a puzzle, with squares, triangles, and rectangles that they can manipulate geometrically, artistic origamists are more concerned with the figure's expressiveness and creativity. The paper itself is extremely important to their work, and they employ methods like wet folding, cutting edges, or making their own paper. Unlike the mathematician or even the modern origamist, they are not concerned with sequences or the ability to reproduce any model. They feel it is their design and expression, meant to be seen and appreciated, not mass-produced.
Many of the Origami models back in the Edo era were made possible only due to the use of Washi. Washi is a very strong Japanese paper, which unlike western papers, didn't tear easily when being folded. Without the Washi paper, the folders would have been unable to do models such as The Catfish or the Water Lily. Besides the creativity and the expressiveness, the folder's sincerity was an important factor when it came to ceremonial origami.
In conclusion, modern origami has evolved from the traditional form of origami, with an emphasis on reproducibility and recognition of the designer's creativity. While traditional origami was passed down orally, modern origamists prefer to use diagrams to ensure that the model can be easily reproduced. Artistic origamists, on the other hand, are concerned only with the beauty of the model and the expression of the paper, with the paper itself being extremely important to their work. The use of Washi paper, with its strength and durability, was an important factor in the creation of many traditional origami models.
FAQ:
What is the difference between traditional and modern origami?
A: Traditional origami was passed down through generations orally and viewed as a secretive art. In contrast, modern origami values the creativity of the designer and emphasizes the importance of the folding sequence being easily reproduced.
Can I use any kind of paper for origami?
A: For traditional origami, the paper should ideally be square and thin, making it easier to fold. However, for modern origami, a wider range of paper can be used depending on the desired effect. Origami paper is specifically designed for this craft and is available in a variety of colors and patterns.
Is it okay to use glue or scissors in modern origami?
A: No, modern origami generally requires only a single sheet of paper and no additional tools. This is because the focus is on the art of folding, rather than cutting and pasting.
Tips:
Start with simple models: Origami can be challenging, so it's best to start with simple models and work your way up to more complex designs.
Practice, practice, practice: The more you fold, the better you will become. Take your time and don't get discouraged if it doesn't come out perfectly the first time.
Use the right paper: Origami paper is designed specifically for this craft and comes in a variety of sizes, colors, and patterns. Start with paper that is easy to fold, such as kami or duo paper.
Follow instructions carefully: Origami models require precise folding sequences, so it's important to follow the instructions carefully. Take your time and don't skip any steps.
Experiment with wet folding: Wet folding is a technique used by artistic origamists to create more organic and expressive models. It involves dampening the paper before folding, which allows for more sculptural shapes.