"Every now and then a man's mind is stretched by a new idea or sensation,

and never shrinks back to its former dimensions"

---Oliver Wendell Holmes Sr., The Autocrat of the Breakfast-Table

This companion website to the exhibition Innovation and Inspiration: The Art of Paper Engineering was created to provide additional information as well as enhance and supplement the exhibition.

The exhibition showcases the fascinating world of pop-up books, paper engineering, art and book arts with the goal of sparking innovative ideas by viewing the exhibition, using this website and utilizing the entire pop-up book collection at the Mardigian Library.

Each paper engineer, outstanding in their field, brings their unique vision to each piece they create. Paper engineering as well as origami and kirigami techniques and principles are used to create 3D models, creative design and are used in a variety of ways.

Useful information on this website highlights how paper engineering has been applied to an astonishing number of disciplines.

In each pop-up book expect to be surprised and amazed. Careful examination of each book both at the exhibition and in the pop-up book collection will help in understanding the mechanics of paper engineering, the beautiful design of colors, shapes and the creative use of the written language. Hopefully it will inspire you to apply what you have seen to your field of study.

GUEST LECTURE

The Hidden Talents of Paper: Pop-Up Cameras, Planetariums and Other Work by Kelli Anderson

Kelli Anderson is an artist, designer, animator, and tinkerer who pushes the limits of ordinary materials by seeking out possibilities hidden in plain view. Her books and projects have included a pop-up paper planetarium, a book that transforms into a pinhole camera, and a working paper record. Intentionally lo-fi, she believes that humble materials can make the complexity and magic of our world accessible.

Here is a simple guide on how to get started.

1) See the exhibition for visual inspiration. Utilize the gallery text, tablets, kiosk and monitor in the gallery for information.

2) Check out the various tabs listed at the top of this website to view articles and videos related to various fields of study and paper engineering.

3) Use the Recommended Reading tab at the top to access information in books and ebooks related to paper engineering found at the Mardigian Library. Included is a Beginner’s Guide to the collection.

4) Go to the fourth floor of the library to gently look at the pop-up books and see how each pop-up is designed and engineered. An appointment will be necessary to view the collection. Please consult the library staff to make an appointment.

5) Make an origami/kirigami/pop-up design by viewing the multiple videos listed under Instructional Videos. Keep your unique design to inspire you as you move forward!

6) Refer back to the website for information on upcoming Zoom lectures.

The remarkable world of pop-up books and the mechanics behind each unique design are waiting to be discovered.

Enjoy and don’t forget to have some fun!