Origami: A Return to Uniqueness Through Artful Folds

Origami, the ancient art of paper folding, has been a constant companion for many years. For Captain Oli, a YouTube influencer with a passion for origami, it's not just a pastime; it's a cherished journey back to childhood and adulthood.

Origami as an Obsession

My fascination with origami began at a young age. Remember, it was the era when I was just six. The appeal of transforming a simple sheet of paper into intricate shapes and figures captured my imagination. Over the years, my passion grew, evolving from basic cranes to more complex designs like crabs, beetles, and butterflies. My fingers would develop calluses, mastering the art of folding.

A Childhood Obsession

I poured my creative energy into folding during school breaks. By fourth grade, my hobby had become even more intricate. I wasn't just folding animals or simple shapes; I was making devil action figures to fight off my bullies. Lunchtime was a sanctuary, a quiet moment to fold and create. In just forty-five minutes, I could fold a Five-Intersecting Tetrahedra with ease.

Unfortunately, this period also made me an outcast. The solitary folds did not equate to friendships. Kids would find me inside rather than outside, engrossed in my paper-folding. It was a solitary yet fulfilling experience.

The Cycle of Origami

Eventually, I moved on to other interests, such as Rubik’s cubes, cup-stacking, and kirigami, but origami kept coming back. After a period of dormancy, it would resurface, bringing with it a sense of familiarity and joy. The paper-folding art has been a constant, a connection to my past and a unique identity in the present.

What I love about origami is the sense of time travel. In five years, I’ll no doubt pick up my origami again, rekindling old memories and regaining the same calloused fingertips. It’s a beautiful reminder of the beauty created in childhood.

As I've grown older, my approach to origami has become more sophisticated. My neighbor's initial introduction to a bird-like shape in a magazine sparked my creativity. Inspired by Alexander Calder, I started creating kinetic origami mobiles. This interest has lasted over six decades, and I’m still fascinated by the elegant and ingenious constructions of today.

Origami Today

Today, I still make these origami mobiles, now using the same design my neighbor showed me. It's a unique creation that no one else has made. The evolvement of origami has been stunning, with each generation introducing new techniques and styles.

Bringing Back the Child in You

Origami isn’t just a pastime; it’s a way to reconnect with the child within. For me, it's a form of therapy, a reminder of the beauty and joy of creation. Even with arthritis, I will continue to fold, reliving the same creative energy and calloused fingertips as my eight-year-old self.

So, whether you’re a child at heart or a dedicated artist, origami offers a unique perspective on the beauty of folding and the joy of creation.