About this item
Objects created by folding paper—this is what was popularized in Japan and known around the world as origami. But did you know that paper was invented more than 1900 years ago and the art of paper folding, better known as zhezhi, originated in ancient China? Thus, it is still a traditional folk art loved and practiced by Chinese people today.In addition to the culture of zhezhi, this book introduces many basic techniques and over 20 step-by-step studies of flowers, animals and decorations for festivals, including a plum blossom, a narcissus, a lantern, steamed rice dumplings and a magpie. This book will show you how to fold these objects and understand the traditions of Chinese culture that are deeply rooted in them. Beginners can follow the detailed diagrams and illustrations, while those who are more advance can learn from the basic techniques to create their own masterpieces.
About the Author
I'm a math teacher and former computer entrepreneur - turned artist, author and inventor! My education was highly technical; engineering, mathematics, and economics. When people began referring to me as an "artist" I felt confused and a little embarrassed. I had never considered the matter.
Over time I have come to understand that I am an artist; in fact everyone is an artist. Each person combines their unique perspective, a lifetime of seeing, touching, feeling and experiencing, into their work. My goal is to unleash the artist in you. I consider myself no more than a facilitator. My techniques are designed to be simple, yet they have infinite possibilities.
Perhaps you will express your artistic side, just like I do, with a discrete emphasis on the technical, or maybe you will discover an aspect of this art form I have not yet explored. Whichever path you choose, I hope you will enjoy following it, and my books are here to help you along the way.
Origami Bonsai is my first book and one of three books in a series for creating botanical sculptures made from paper.
Origami 101 is a book that takes several new approaches to teaching origami. My hope is that this book will make origami accessible to the scores of people that previously considered it too complex.
You can see many more pictures of Origami Bonsai sculptures made by people from all over the world, as well as a free magazine devoted to Origami Bonsai, and folding videos and lots more at http://www.OrigamiBonsai.org
