Between The Folds | Talks at Google

TL;DR

Origami combines mathematics, art, and creativity to create beautiful folded paper creations.

Transcript

The process of making is the point of it. This needs to be a kind of ballet. >> If anybody can copy [indistinct], it's not art. [violin] >> There's no carving in wood or in stone or knots on a rug that are going to look anything near like what pleats do when they express a line. >> Lots of people talk about the reality of a [indistinct] elephant in... Read More

Key Insights

• 🥰 Origami is a fusion of mathematics, art, and creativity, attracting individuals from different backgrounds.
• 🏮 Paper choice and papermaking techniques are crucial in ensuring the foldability and longevity of origami creations.
• 💄 Origami can be a medium for exploring mathematical concepts, making it a valuable tool for learning and experimentation.
• 🧑‍🎨 The origami community is well-connected globally, with artists often recommending one another for projects.
• 🙏 Tools and aids can be used in the origami process, as long as folding remains the primary means of creating the structure.
• 👻 Origami can be made from materials other than paper, allowing for a wide range of artistic possibilities.
• 🛟 Preserving origami creations often involves additional treatments to ensure durability and longevity.

Questions & Answers

Q: What are the physical limits of origami as an art form?

The physical limits of origami are constantly being explored and pushed by artists. By manipulating the folds and creases in a piece of paper, artists can create intricate and complex shapes.

Q: Is using lasers or tools frowned upon in the origami community?

The use of tools like lasers or other aids in the origami process is not frowned upon, as long as the primary means of creating the structure is through folding. Different artists may have their own preferences and techniques.

Q: Can origami be made from materials other than paper?

Yes, origami can be made from a variety of materials, including textiles and found objects. The principles of folding can be applied to different mediums, allowing for creativity and experimentation.

Q: How do artists preserve and protect their origami creations?

Some artists may use lacquer or acrylic sprays to make their origami creations more durable. In commercial installations or jewelry-making, additional treatments such as epoxy may be used to ensure the longevity of the piece.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Origami is a unique art form that explores the creativity and magic of folding a square piece of paper.

• It is a medium that draws together mathematicians, scientists, artists, and origami enthusiasts.

• The process of making origami involves changing the memory of the paper, and it can be a way to engage with math and science.