Folding Paper was a groundbreaking exhibition that explored the evolution of origami from craft to fine art, as well as its stunning modern-day applications in the fields of mathematics, engineering, design, and the global peace movement. Works by 45 master folders from around the world—from countries as diverse as Japan, the United States, Uruguay, and Russia—showcased the power and potential of contemporary origami. In these artists’ hands, paper is a medium for infinite creativity.

Asian Art historian Meher McArthur offers an engaging view of contemporary origami, while placing the works in a fascinating art-historical context. She traces the development of paper folding in both the Eastern and Western traditions and suggests how it has transformed those cultures.

Origami artist and physicist Dr. Robert J. Lang uses the infinitely adaptable art form as a tool to explore the intersection of art and science. Lang interweaves a description of origami’s advances and applications with his own personal journey along the boundaries and meetings between art and science. As visionary artists and scientists continue to push the limits of paper folding, there seems to be nothing that origami cannot become.

IA&A developed Folding Paper for a national tour through a partnership with the Japanese American National Museum.