Folding

Origami, the world-famous Japanese art of folding paper, is perhaps the best known example of folding design, which is deeply embedded in Japanese culture. Today, exciting new frontiers in folding design are being explored. Computer-aided origami is leading to the creation of complex shapes from simple folds, and renowned Japanese fashion designer Issey Miyake is using folding to create garments. Our studio guest is Nobuhiro Yamaguchi, a graphic designer who studies the origins of origami in Japan's samurai-era gift-wrapping etiquette. In his own designs, he combines these traditional practices with some very contemporary flourishes. On this edition of Design Talks, we explore the many facets of Japanese folding design.