This is one of the more innovative home items I’ve seen in a while. Behold, the expanding, origami planter from Studio Ayaskan. Created by the designer brother duo behind the brand, this simple yet complicated invention follows a plant’s transformation over time. While the studio is still in their manufacturing stage, they’re accepting emails for their mailing list to share release details when they’re ready.
Today, we’re doing a simple compare and contrast of nature, art and fashion. The similarities are breathtaking, as each image feels like it’s within two degrees of each other in regard to form and complexity.
The top photo is a colony of mussels from Laguna Beach. They feel rather ordinary in a spectacular way. Then we have origami V-Pleats. Each diamond has been folded in half so that the top corners touch every edge with perfect precision. Go ahead and try to replicate…not so simple. Then, singing Marni’s praises yet again, this jacket is a phenomenon on it’s own. The texture bunches are both futuristic and life-like. I’m a huge fan.
In anticipation of the blustery snow I’ll be shoveling on my visit to Rhode Island this weekend, I have snowflakes on the mind. This origami display shines sharp in it’s perfect precision. Paper always has the ability to convey multiple moods when well lit and properly prepared. The Miwa Alex Salon of New York hit it on the nail, wouldn’t you say?
Origami and textiles merge beautifully in Shadowfolds: Surprisingly Easy-to-Make Geometric Designs in Fabric, an exciting book by origamist Jeff Rutzky and artist Chris K. Palmer.
Shadowfolds are intricate designs in fabric derived from a rich blend of traditional motifs, such as Moorish tile and classic Japanese origami, expressed in a contemporary style and evolved to utilize the unique capabilities of fabric. The technique, pioneered by artist Chris K. Palmer, uses classic geometric patterns to create works of art in fabric from a single, uncut panel of cloth using a simple, three-step process.
Some applications use light against fiber, while others reveal the depth and richness of the folds. In addition to explaining the three very simple steps of the technique, the authors show how even novice folders can create breathtaking works of textile art, as well as fashion-forward clothes, accessories and home furnishings by incorporating these three-dimensional embellishments.
For more imagery, visit Burda Style
Delicate sophistication is synonymous with origami. Though simplistic, there’s a beautiful complexity to every folded 3D figurine. As of late, creative pop culture has embraced this ancient art with a modern tune. Using color, form, figurative interpretation, and various materials, designers throughout the fashion, media, and home industries have embraced this budding trend, making unique, yet paralleling commercial interpretations.
See above for various examples: The Unrising Intl’s Keane poster with graphic animal forms, A futuristic dress, worn by pop vocalist Lady Gaga, homeware ceramic plates, sold at Lancelotti’s in the East Village of Manhattan and delicate metallic pendents by Origami Bijiou.
A more functional and figurative take can be found by the Italian design team at Lago Casa with these tanagram bookshelfs. Movement is balanced by stillness in this beautifully playful design. In the more abstract realm, folding vivid graphics are illustrated quite literally on this 2006 coverart for The Rapture’s album, Pieces of the People We Love.