Paper: A New Medium

Papercraft is the art of creating a three-dimensional object or sculpture using paper as the medium. Papercraft is a diverse and unique form of craft, as it involves actively cutting and glueing paper to create a certain form. Although it sometimes requires bending and folding, it is not to be mistaken for origami. This type of craft is commonly associated with "Pepakura", a Japanese term for a specific type of paper craft resulting in hollow three-dimensional paper objects. Pepakura is directly linked to 3D modelling, the most prevalent source being video game model reconstruction.  Many different types of software are available to help aid in the construction of paper models and objects, a few examples being Rhino 3D, Blender and Adobe Illustrator. By using computer software for 3D paper design, the designer has complete control over the creation of the form digitally, allowing it to be broken down into a flat 2D template which is easier to cut from.

Many artists have been using paper craft in their work, wether it be a traditional use of the craft or a completely new style exclusive to the artist themselves.  Beijing based artist, book designer and editor, Li Hongbo is best known for his interpretation of the honeycomb technique widely used in China for paper gourd making.  By crafting paper in this way he is able to create sculptures that expand, contract and retract in an exquisite fashion. His classical, figurative sculptures are widely recognized for their bizarre movement, as the thin layers of paper lay so flat it is hard to believe paper is able to be manipulated in this way.

Li explains that his infatuation with paper came when he was publishing books. When it came to design, paper played an important role. Characteristics, style and durability of the paper were considered in the publishing process, which helped him recognize how versatile paper can be as a medium. By using the honeycomb technique, Hongbo is able to change the formal qualities of paper. His sculptures are flat when resting but when provoked, they become large and slinky-like. However, this technique is extremely time consuming. Each layer of paper is hand painted with glue and stuck together, totalling in a stack of over 20,000 sheets of paper for a life-sized sculpture, head to toe. Even though the bonding of the paper is important, the initial design is crucial. Li considers the depth, width, mass and centre of every sculpture. He explains that due to the flexibility of the sculpture, the centre becomes the most essential as it will tip over if its remotely off.

Li Hongbo uses an electric saw to sculpt the figures, making highly realistic figures or replicas of historical pieces. The movement created though his process is extremely deceiving visually. Along with stunning the viewer with his unique work, Hongbo contrasts traditional aesthetic with a surprising motion. He reflects on influences of folk traditions in China, as well as playing on the pre-conceived perceptions of this material, allowing paper to become its own visual language.

I am extremely inspired by Li Hongbo, as his craft is indescribable. The way he manipulates this material to respond to human touch in such an informal way is something I have never experienced before. Further,  his work resonates with me as my work is also figurative, and contrasts traditional aesthetics. He maneuvers paper beyond its usual boundaries, allowing it to become a tangible and distinct medium to sculpt with. Li connects traditional notions of sculpture and design with a very unusual material, which can be difficult. I'm blown away at the incredible movement of his sculptures, and the sheer amount of time required to achieve such an effect.  I believe Li Hongbo is a very important and pivotal paper craft sculptor, contrasting contemporary with traditional in an extremely bizarre and unique style.