Boom! by Vincent Floderer. Photo courtesy of www.janm.org
By DANCHI NGUYEN
LOS ANGELES – The Japanese American National Museum’s current exhibit, “Folding Paper: The Infinite Possibilities of Origami,” shows visitors how a piece of paper can be folded in a variety of ways to make intricate designs. This is JANM’s first origami exhibit, featuring 150 works by more than 40 artists from 16 countries.
Partial Shell by Richard Sweeney. Photo courtesy of www.janm.org
By learning the history of paper folding and seeing works from well-known origami artists, visitors see the different evolving styles of origami and learn about the relationship between origami and mathematics, science and design.
Giang Dinh ― a native of Hue, Viet Nam, who studied architecture in Viet Nam and in the United States ― has three works in JANM’s exhibit. Dinh’s works resemble beautiful and delicate small statues more than origami works. Known for his simple and Zen-like designs, Giang Dinh's works are featured in the PBS film “Between the Folds.”
Recently, Dinh talked with Nguoi Viet 2 about origami.
NV2: How did you get started in origami?
Dinh: My parents bought me origami books when I was in second-third ( 1973-74). When the war in Viet Nam ended in 1975, we lost everything; from those books, I only remember some traditional models. In 1996, I came to a bookstore and saw the same book that my parents bought me more than 20 years ago (“World of Origami” by Isao Honda). I bought the book and started folding again! Then I joined Origami USA. Soon after, I discovered more books and went to origami conventions regularly. At these conventions, I saw many inspiring works from folders all over the world. After two years, I started to create my own original models.
Giang Dinh. Photo courtesy of Giang Dinh
Q: How long does it take to get good at origami?
A:It does not take long to learn the basic folds. To be a good folder can take a while; of course you have to practice a lot, as with any other arts.
Q:Who were the greatest influences on you?
A: I would say Akira Yoshizawa. When I first got his book, it left an immediate deep impression on me; seeing his art really opened my eyes. His works are not complex, but very sculptural and his touch breathes life into the piece of paper. I have not attempted to fold many of his models, but I learned a great deal by looking at pictures of his finished works.
Buddha. Photo courtesy of Giang Dinh
Q: What inspires your origami creations? Where do you get your ideas?
A: Inspiration can come from many sources ― from modern sculptures to paintings, Zen paintings, graphic design, other origami artists’ works and what I read and see and listen to...
Fly. Photo courtesy of Giang Dinh
Q: Are there any rules in origami?
A: The “purist” rule: single piece of square, no cut, no glue. I myself also use uncut rectangles. With modular model, of course, folders use many pieces of paper. So I would not say there are strict rules you have to follow, but in general, folders do not cut. It takes away the challenge.
Prayer. Photo courtesy of Giang Dinh
Q: Do you incorporate the features of origami in your architectural designs?
A: Some simple folds, but not much so far.
Q: You are very talented with your hands. What other passions do you try your hand at, so to speak?
A: I love to draw and paint, and hope that I will have more time for painting in the future.
QN. Photo courtesy of Giang Dinh
Q: Paper cuts. Does that happen often?
A: It rarely happened to me. I guess it’s because I wet fold most of my models from thick paper. I also try to fold metal mesh and, yes, you have to be very careful.
Q:If you've visited Japan, what were your impressions?
A: I was there for an origami convention for about a week; I guess it is not long enough to say much. The Japanese folders and people we met are very nice and friendly. I liked the countryside ― very peaceful. I also like Japanese Zen art and Haiku.
Q: How can you share more about the uniqueness of origami to fellow Vietnamese Americans?
A: It's like magic! Imagine… almost everything can be folded from a piece of paper! A piece of paper, and your hands ― a conversation. Origami is an art of sharing; everybody can practice it, rich or poor. Origami can also be sculpture ― an origami artist chooses paper instead of stone, metal or wood as a medium. After Akira Yoshizawa folded his beautiful swan, he said, "but a few minutes ago, it was just a piece of paper!” I think it is wonderful.
To learn more about Giang Dinh and his works, go to www.giangdinh.com. For more information about the PBS film, go to http://www.pbs.org/independentlens/between-the-folds/people.html. Watch Joseph Wu fold one of Giang Dinh's origami animals, go to http://vimeo.com/11692720
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The Japanese American National Museum. Photo courtesy of www.janm.org
For more information
What: Folding Paper: The Infinite Possibilities of Origami
Where:The Japanese American National Museum (JANM), 369 E. First St., Los Angeles
When: Through Aug. 26. Open Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Thursday, noon to 8 p.m. Closed Mondays.
Website:www.janm.org
Phone: (213) 625-0414
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