Origami

Origami can be best defined as an ancient and beautiful art of paper folding. For centuries, this art has fascinated millions of people all across the globe. Origami originated from Japanese words oru (fold) and kami (paper), and established itself as a creative expression within certain rules of construction, using paper and imagination as the only material required.

Over the period of tome, Origami has evolved as the measure of the simplest practicality with most models being made from exquisite handmade paper, symbolizing a departure from the flatness of ordinary paper and a new approach towards saving the environment. Handmade papers possesses various qualities, like, resilient sturdiness and softness, which holds the folds yet prevents tearing when handled.

History of Origami
It is widely believed that Origami began around the first century AD in China. A history that is almost two thousand years old, origami stands as an art, which has blended philosophies and various art styles. However, it is believed that in those early days paper was very expensive and not affordable for maximum population, hence, Origami was only for the rich. It was only when paper became cheaper that the art of Origami spreaded all across the globe to Spain, America, Japan, and North Africa.

The beauty of the art
As an art of transforming a flat square piece of paper into anything from a simple boat to an elaborate three-dimensional floral arrangement origami is enjoyed as an elegant and fun art. Adroit in creation, astonishing in simplicity, and arresting in its absolute beauty, origami stands out as an amazing expression of artistic vision and ability.

The present day history
Origami is only now achieving respect worldwide as a medium in art. A huge number of animals, plants, boats, and countless other objects have found awe inspiring translation into the world of folded paper. People generally prefer no cutting or tearing of the paper, no gluing or decorating, and use a elegant and decorative handmade origami paper for each model. The beautiful origami paper sculptures represents the eastern philosophy and western attitude towards origami as well as its consideration as art.

More than just art.
There is more to origami than just the craft of folding paper. Since, origami challenges the mind to create, memorize sequences and concentrate on the final product, hence, it has got diverse usages apart from being used in pop-up books, greeting cards, recreational activity or children's diversion. This art can be used by engineers and architects in the form of origamiin architectural designs; schools are widely using origami to develop the motor skills of children and as other kind of educational & scientific tool as it appeals to the puzzle-solving branch of mathematics as well as in the teaching of geometry.