Zen Origami
20 Modular Forms for
Meditation and Calm
By Maria Sinayskaya
Race Point Publishing 2016
Paperback £12.99 UK/$19.99 US/$23.99 CAN
ISBN 978-1-63106-197-4
Star rating: **** (origami star rating!)
If you are keen on the mindful crafting trend, but want a
change from colouring, Zen Origami could be the book for you. ( Actually, it is
a “value added” book – it comes with a batch of mini origami squares and is smartly packaged in a classy sleeve with a slide tray).
The author, Maria Sinayskya, has a master’s degree in
mathematics. She has applied her pro knowledge (and love of geometry) to
origami design, specializing in modular constructions – polyhedral, kusudamas,
and stars. The exquisitely intricate-looking globes in the book are all
assembled from multiples of the same folded unit. To assemble each shape, you
must master the folds of one unit, fold it in quantity (having memorized the
moves), then build the shape by sliding the interlocking units into place. The
repetitive action is calming (an alpha state of crafty bliss).
The book is thoughtfully planned (as you would expect ) - preface
with meditative slant, contents a
gallery of the book projects, followed by basic how-tos, an excellent tips
section, then on to the projects. You are eased in gently - flat constructions - before moving on to 3D.
The starter flat shapes are winners and would make great gift
wrap decorations. The Giant Star is sort of a cheat’s Froebel Star. The
Two-Faced Flower is gorgeous.
The multi-faceted shapes are fabulous, and make use of the
double-sided origami papers provided. Some of the star stars include: Skella Alpha Kusudama (openwork interlocking shape),
Isolde Sonobe and Ester Sonobe (dimensional multifaceted stars), Lorence Sonobe
(an interwoven appearance). Some of the shapes have graceful floral-like curls,
others are more angular and spiky. All are breathtakingly beautiful.
Now, when you are applying yourself to the projects, you
will come across phrases like “30-unit dodecahedral assembly”. Keep calm (that’s the point). The clear
illustrations – including close-up details – and
text will guide you through. The
step-by-steps are (as you would expect from a mathematician) precise and
foolproof.
The projects have been thoughtfully photographed, and are
made up in a flattering choice papers of varying colours, textures, and effects
– metallic,
dimpled , mixed prints (although they are not the same as the
double-sided papers provided, which are a pleasant mix of prints that reverse
to plains).
If you like origami, you appreciate intriguing, absorbing
puzzle-like challenges. Maria Sinayskaya’s collection of complex – yet calming
constructions– comes up with the goods.
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