Issue 17: Mathematics of Paper Folding

As I read my chosen article about mathematics of paper folding, I found it was very interesting.  Robert Lang is known as a "pioneer" in origami folding.  Robert is also a physicist and is very good with math and its properties.  He has a very unique technique in folding origami.  He uses mathematical equations to help make his intricate paper folds.  He likes to call it "technical folding".  "Technical folding" means you are using specific techniques for designing specific features.  This folding really started to grow around the early 1990's when artists started to develop mathematical principles for folding.  He is so good with origami folding that the Jet Propulsion Laboratory asked him to do designs for medical packaging for transportation.  The Lawrence Livermore Lab also asked Robert to develop a space based telescope.  Not only does he just fold paper with precise measurements but with that, and his combined knowledge of physics, can help scientific advancements. He has always had a love for origami and makes origami art for a living and the physicist positions as side jobs.  

I think what Robert Lang does is amazing.  He is able to make creases in the paper that with traditional origami would be impossible.  He really shows us that something so simple can be turned into something so amazing.  I think it is really fascinating how math equations can

even be used to make origami.  I remember when I used to go to church and I would sit there and try to make different objects by folding the attendance cards.  I understand how hard it is to make good creases or even make something look like anything at all.  I think its awesome how he makes his animals almost look realistic.  The only thing I don't like about "Technical Folding" is that it takes the hard technique of traditional folding out of it.  Yes, he does very beautiful artwork but it is a scientific art.  Actual handmade origami almost as good as his creations is way more interesting because it was much more difficult to complete.  I think we all can agree that taking the tradition out of things isn't always a good thing.  Overall I thought his artwork was great and very interesting.