Thursday, 17 November 2016

Mind-Blowing Modular Origami, by Byriah Loper. Review.

The Art of Polyhedral Paper Folding
By Byriah Loper
Tuttle Publishing 2016
Paperback £12.08
ISBN 978-4-8053-1309-1

Star rating: *****

I am in awe of origami innovator Byriah Loper – in just a few years’ time he learned how to construct complex modular origami constructions and design them himself. He's tops in the field. Like learning a language, mastery is indicated by thinking in it (anyone seen the amazing new sci-fi film, Arrival?). This new title from origami specialists, Tuttle Publishing, is a showcase of Loper’s fantastic modular models. Many of them consist of folded paper straws – they remind me of the K’nex construction toy – which are interwoven – these are know as wire frames. Many look a bit like multicoloured rubberband balls. 

Yes, this title has geek appeal – but anyone with an appreciation of the puzzle-like nature of modular origami will be dumbstruck with the beauty of the models’ design and construction. Assembling the models requires repetitive action and patience – so full marks for the mindfulness quotient. The shapes are like 3D mandalas.

The instructions for the models are exemplary. The author’s step-by-steps include lots of fine-points to ensure construction success. Folding of the units is illustrated in line drawings, while construction of the modular globes is shown with photographs superimposed with directional arrows. 

The book begins with more conventional modular origami shapes, with larger interlocking units, then works up to the interwoven straw shapes. 

The large format of the book is suited to the material. Each project begins with a ginormous beauty shot of the orgami globe. Wow factor.

This book lives up to its title – and is ideal for those who are up for a fascinating origami challenge. Congrats to Byriah Loper on his cosmic constructions!


Note: I was supplied with a review copy of this book.

This book comes out on 1 December. I am posting the review now in case you wish to pre-order with Christmas gift intentions.


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