Origami + Architecture

I recently learned to appreciate the infinite possibilities a piece of paper holds. I attended the Origami USA 2013 Convention at the Fashion Institute of Technology. During my trip to New York for the Convention, I also visited Le Corbusier: An Atlas of Modern Landscapes exhibition in MOMA and there I appreciated the simplicity and power of modern architecture within the exhibit.

The ancient paper-folding craft, origami, is evolving into modern art form, from daily-life objects to abstract sculptural forms. Flat surfaces are transformed into three-dimensional objects by using simple techniques and the basic material, papers. The dynamics of origami are achieved by understanding the complex mathematical geometrical crease patterns and final expressions are sculpted artistically by folders. It was remarkable to see the vivid expressions of origami figures and beautiful paper art exhibited in the convention.

Upon my visit to MOMA for Le Corbusier exhibition, I found striking similarities between origami and his architectural approach. Simple, modular frameworks and the singular material concrete compose complex spatial dialogues between the inside and outside, and yet achieve the poetic architectural expression through light and shadow, dynamic movement and his personal sculptural touch.

After observing the MOMA exhibition, I thought about Corbusier as a master of architecture. His drawings in crayon and pencil were similar to kid’s drawings. Master minds’ ideas can be conveyed through very simple and basic ways.