Origami--Beauty in Simplicity

Although most people credit the Japanese with the origins of origami, paper folding actually originated in China around the first century. Sometime during the sixth century it arrived in Japan and was immediately embraced by the aristocracy. The Japanese named it "ori," meaning "to fold," and "gami," meaning "paper." Because paper had great value and was rare, its use was limited to the rich. But when the Japanese perfected inexpensive ways to produce paper, origami assumed a new role in the social structure of the country. Everyone could enjoy the simplicity, economy and "Zen" of folding.

From the 1600's to the late 1800's there was a flourishing of Japanese arts and culture, and it was during this time that origami attained its most glorious stature. For generations, all patterns and directions for folding were handed down from one generation to the next. Historical documentation occurred when two texts, one written in 1797 (How To Fold 1000 Cranes) and one in 1845 (Window on Midwinter) documented the early Japanese "bases" or designs.

The Japanese and the Moors in North Africa developed paper folding simultaneously. When the Moors (excellent mathematicians) invaded Spain in the eighth century, they brought with them the practice of paper folding. This geometric style, the Moorish traditional "school" of origami, still exists in both Spain and South America today (due to Spanish influences). Originally, only geometric folding was allowed because of the religious limitations on recreating animal forms. As trade routes opened to North America and Europe, origami came along with trade goods.

Materials used for contemporary origami include many specialty papers very well suited for folding. Most designs are still based on the geometric base of a square, and most pre-packaged papers are sold cut into uniform square shapes. Metallic papers, patterned papers and solids of every hue can be found organized in packets at all art material suppliers. Most packaging includes basic instructions but there are dozens of easy to follow instructional books available.

You can create properly folded images without a folding bone, but a bone is very helpful in attaining the crisp folds that yield precise points and angular elements. Folding bones are usually made of rigid plastic, with a dull point at one end. The point is used to smooth shapes and angles for sharpness.

Even though origami is considered by many to be art for children, currently there is strong interest by adults. The soothing level of concentration required for accurate and precise folding is considered as beneficial as meditation for many. Classes are available through continuing education systems and art organizations throughout the U.S.