How to make an origami cube – Why is this skill useful?
Origami is an art form, and to many cultures it is an essential part of bonding and social tradition. Originating in Japan, origami has extended itself to cultures outside of Asia, mesmerizing all those who can appreciate this delicate art. However, origami is not simply a skill of beauty; it teaches fundamental artistic principles. Learning to critically analyze the structure of objects and shapes can enhance the artist’s ability to use their mind’s eye, and therefore better formulate three demential images in their minds. The construction and deconstruction 3D objects in to 2D forms can enable the artist to thoughtfully think about the building process of their works. Spacial ability is practiced and therefore advanced, allowing for greater cognitive development. This is further developed through the act of attentively watching specific foldings, and attempting to carefully replicate them. In addition, the artist’s understanding of material (durability, malleability, etc) will become more sophisticated as they understand the extent to which they can manipulate that material.
Many contemporary artists have looked in to origami as a serious art form. Actually, it is not uncommon for origami artists to be experts in other fields that require refined spacial awareness. For example, Robert J. Lang is a sophisticated American origami artist and physicist. Lang has carefully studied the mathematics and theory behind origami making, and often tests his theories with the help of 3D computer programs. In other instances, a lifetime commitment to origami will enable a whole new understanding of the craft. Swiss origami master Sipho Mabona began his journey with origami at a young age, running out of paper airplane designs at age 15. He is now known for his large scale origami works. Other artists, such as Goran Konjevod, take a more abstract approach to origami — creating organic shapes rather than recognizable forms.
Lang, Robert J. “About Robert J. Lang.” Robert J. Lang Origami. Accessed January 29, 2019. https://langorigami.com/about-robert-j-lang/.
Levenson, George. “The Educational Benefits of Origami.” EarthLink. Accessed January 29, 2019. http://home.earthlink.net/~robertcubie/origami/edu.html.
Mabona, Sipho, and Manuel Cilurzo. “About Sipho Mabona.” Www.mabonaorigami.com: Artist. Accessed January 29, 2019. http://www.mabonaorigami.com/en/artist/artist.html.
Stewart, Jessica. “11 Cutting-Edge Origami Artists Who Are Masters of Paper Folding.” My Modern Met. April 05, 2017. Accessed January 29, 2019. https://mymodernmet.com/contemporary-origami-artists/.
