Origami: A Timeless Art Form

A Brief History:

Origami has been a rich part of Japanese culture for centuries. Although the Japanese coined the term origami, or “folded paper,” historians suggest that it was actually the Chinese who first began practicing the art form as they had been the ones to invent paper in the early 2nd century. However, the Japanese truly developed the paper folding technique into a unique and beautiful art form.

Originally named orikata, or “folded shapes,” the art was reserved for formal gift wrappings usually created by aristocrats or high-ranking Japanese officials. Because the cost of paper was so high, only the wealthy could afford this craft, even then only using it for religious ceremonies.

However, during the Edo period starting in the 17th century, much of Japanese society was able to purchase Washi paper due to its relatively cheap nature, making origami much more popular. Thus, origami became a widespread pastime as people created different objects and animals out of the paper.

By the time origami made its way to Europe in the 18th century, the art form was flourishing. Friedrich Fröbel, a teacher in Germany, even included origami into his kindergarten class’ curriculum.

Animals:

Cranes, frogs, and butterflies were some of the most popular creations in Japan during the Edo period.

Cranes represent good fortune, peace, longevity, and healing. It was during this time that the Japanese tradition of senbazuru was established. This tradition entails folding 1,000 paper cranes in order to be granted a wish.

Frogs symbolize good luck and prosperity. Furthermore, frog in Japanese, or “kaeru,” means “to return,” which is associated with safe returns and travels.

Finally, butterflies represent transformation. Moreover, butterflies are associated with rebirth because of their cyclical lifetime.

Folds and bases:

Once origami had reached Europe, more complex structures were formed and new ideas were explored. For example, in the 20th century, Akira Yoshizawa standardized the “bird base” using the folding instructions for origami cranes. This revolutionized origami as this individualized base was recognized as a structure that could be turned into other creations. For example, with the bird base, one could make a dragon instead of a crane. Yoshizawa’s genius and creativeness lives through his title as the father of modern origami.

Other common bases include the frog base, the fish base, and the kite base. 

Origami in the modern day:

Today, origami can be seen in several different professions beyond just artistry. In Arizona, you can visit Taliesin West, one of the many homes designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, and see firsthand the architectural result of origami’s inspiring nature. Wright designed his “origami” chair, basing the geometric design off of the precise and detailed Japanese art form.

Origami can also be seen in space technology. Scientists used the principles of origami to design foldable solar arrays and antennas, allowing them to maximize space during deployment in space.

Thus, as you go about your day, observe the world around you. Origami is everywhere—in space, in architecture, even in your own house!

---

Download the accompanying worksheet here!