Fun Unfolds During Origami Convention
Helping a classmate fold the Bascetta Star after I finished folding my blue model.
The pool, the beach, summer camp, and cookouts are just some of the things I like about summer. From June 21 to June 24, I did something very different from these: I attended the Origami USA Annual Convention in New York City. Sponsored by Origami USA, the convention takes place at the Fashion Institute of Technology. It provides members with opportunities to teach origami models and techniques, learn from teachers from all over the world, and meet some famous and not so famous origami artists.
Every morning attendees selected classes organized by difficulty. Among the classes I took were a Bascetta Star, which is a modular model made up of 30 units. Each unit is identical to the next and they are assembled to create the model. I also learned a new butterfly, designed by Michael LaFosse but taught by Sok Song. Both men are prominent origami artists; LaFosse has written several books and is also known for his paper-making. Song has written several books and was Creative Director of an origami magazine, "Creased."
Jorge Pardo from Spain and Ralf Konrad from Germany were guest teachers. I took a box class from Konrad. Pardo's class was full before I got to register for it. However, he showed me how to make his Stellar Snap model in the main meeting area. Other notable teachers included MIT professor Eric Demaine and physicist Robert Lang.
Over 600 people attended the convention, many from countries outside the United States. I am really glad I was able to attend!
Here are a few pictures from the convention. To learn more, you can visit Origami USA at www.origamiusa.org.
Brendan McCallum
I am a Lakewood student.