Japanese Cardboard Art

Japanese Cardboard Art

With accurate folds, it is possible to transform a single sheet of paper into all manner of 3D forms. The art of paper folding is a Japanese tradition, so it is no wonder that a number of contemporary Japanese artists use paper and cardboard to create sculptures.

A flat sheet of cardboard can be folded into a simple box shape, but the possibilities for cardboard design stretch far beyond a basic cube. Aylesbury Box Company design packaging in a variety of shapes and dimensions, with added features that help to protect and promote a product. We love a good design challenge and it seems that our passion is shared by artists in Japan.

Cardboard Creations

One online resource named Papyrus has been set up by Japan’s Paper World. The aim is to share the skills of cardboard artists through workshops and publicity. One artist, Chappy Okamoto, creates spectacular headwear and masks for theatre performances and another, Akari Koike, makes items including cardboard lanterns and decorations for ‘paper parties’.

The most impressive we saw was a number of large scale sculptures by Kyoto artist Masahiko Senda. His gigantic Transformers, moving robots and models from movies certainly showcase the possibilities that can be achieved from cardboard. Masahiko Senda is drawn to this basic material because it is cheap, accessible and versatile, making it easy to transform his ideas into objects.

Our passion for the environment means we’re keen to encourage the reuse of our cardboard boxes. You can find lots of interesting ideas online and artists like Masahiko are bound to inspire your inner creativity. How might you and the kids remodel a cardboard box this Easter holiday?