We all know Origami, the Japanese art of folding paper into tiny sculptures resembling nature. But wait until you see Japanese artist Hitotsuyama’s creations, taking a slightly different approach to Japanese Paper Art. Yet still, all made from simple newspapers collected and turned into amazing life-like sculptures.
The Artist
Hitotsuyama Studio was founded by artist Chie Hitotsuyama and creative director Tomiji Tamai. Their Studio is based in Shizuoka, a Japanese prefecture near Tokyo, and found it’s home inside an old paper strip factory, previously operated by Hitotsuyama’s family. Which if you ask me, beautifully highlights the connection of taking tradition and personal history and transform it into something new and exciting.
Japanese Life-Imitating Paper Art
It is almost surreal looking at what Hitotsuyama and her team have created. You expect these animals to just start to move at any time, however, they stay frozen. Yet their expressions often tell a story. So beautiful to look at, you almost forget they are made entirely out of paper.
From Newspaper to Art
Once you realize how these sculptures are made, you will be even more amazed. Entirely made by hand and using recycled old newspapers, the artist and her team take sheet after sheet, wet it, twist-fold and roll it, until every piece finds its place.
With the coloration entirely coming from the prints inside the newspaper. Slowly these animals take shape over hours and hours of work. From sea turtles to monkeys it is insane how realistic these life-size sculptures look.
A Very Unique Perspective
To learn more about the artist’s unique perspective, make sure to watch this short video by “Great Big Story”. As it beautifully gives you an insight into Hitotsuyama’s work and takes you on a journey through her world…
Their work has been displayed internationally, with previous exhibitions including a show at the MOAH:CEDAR, California in 2017, and has naturally been showcased within Japan. For more details have a look at the Studios Website.
