by Eva Caesar
ORIGAMI
叠纸
AGENDA
⒜⠀history
The history of origami dates back to ancient China, where paper was invented around
105 AD during the Eastern Han Dynasty. Early Chinese paper folding, known as "zhezhi," was used in ceremonial practices.
As paper-making techniques spread to Japan in the 6th century, Japanese culture adopted and refined the ancient art, leading to the development of the origami we recognize today.
HOW HAS THE ART OF PAPER FOLDING INFLUENCES LIFE IN BOTH COUNTRIES?
During the Edo period (1603-1868), origami was popularized among the common people, and instructional books were published, spreading the craft to a wider audience. Traditional designs, such as the crane, carry profound symbolism in Japanese culture, representing peace, longevity, and good fortune. Origami also played a role in ceremonies and gift-giving, further embedding it into the fabric of magnificent Japanese society.
Similarly, in China, paper folding continued to play a significant role in cultural practices. The Chinese tradition of zhezhi influenced various aspects of life, from religious ceremonies to decorative arts. Beyond its aesthetic and cultural value, both Japanese origami and Chinese zhezhi have found applications in modern science and engineering, inspiring innovative designs in fields such as medical devices, space exploration, and architecture.
⒝⠀styles and examples
Traditional origami focuses on creating simple, recognizable shapes using basic folds. These models often have cultural significance and include classic designs such as:
• Crane
A symbol of peace and longevity
• Frog
A playful and popular model
• Boat
Simple and commonly taught to beginners
传统的 (Chuántǒng de)
传统的 (Chuántǒng de)
TRADITIONAL
M
O
D
U
L
A
R
Modular origami involves creating multiple identical units that are then assembled to form a complex structure. This style emphasizes precision and repetition, resulting in intricate and often symmetrical designs.
Examples:
• Sonobe Module
Basic unit used to create polyhedra
• Kusudama
Decorative balls often made
for festive occasions
• Stellated Polyhedra
Geometric shapes with star-like protrusions
模块化 (Mókuài huà)
模块化 (Mókuài huà)
TESSELLATION
镶嵌 (Xiāngqiàn)
镶嵌 (Xiāngqiàn)
Tessellation origami involves folding the paper in such a way that it creates repeating patterns and geometric designs. This style often results in intricate, lattice-like structures that showcase the beauty of symmetry and repetition.
Examples:
Hexagonal Tessellation: Repeating hexagon patterns.
Corrugation: Folded waves creating a textured surface.
Interlocking Tiles: Complex patterns that fit together seamlessly.
ACTION
WET-FOLDING
PURELAND
KIRIGAMI
TEABAG
STRIP FOLDING
etc.
⒞⠀cultural meaning
senbazuru
(one thousand cranes)