The traditional origami was first invented in China and brought to Japan by monks in 6th Century. In those days, paper folding in Japan was strictly for ceremonial purposes, often in religious nature. These days is origami also called paper engineering a trend that embellishes many different media.
I always was ‘hands on girl’ and had art classes scheduled after my school but coming to Benja’s office in Surry Hills, I was blown away. Flamingo heads, pop up books or giant shoe made entirely out of paper are filled with his office. Benja is a self thought paper engineer, living and working in Sydney but travelling the world to build from paper.
We asked him to collaborate with us on our flatly and Benja was more than excited to make all the summer stuff for us. On the phone, he asked me: “what would you like me to make” I said, can we make a big suitcase that we can pack our swimwear in to?” “Also, a little crab and ice-cream?” He answered with an excitement: “Of course! But can I make it really colourful?” I knew we were on the same page.
For some it looks like play and yes certainly it did also for me. I still remember when in school we were making boats or plane, sometimes frogs made out of paper and I always loved it. It was only natural to say yes when he asked me if I want to ‘have a go’
Next thing you know, I was cover in paper cuts and my fingers were sticky from a glue, and so I rather left all the work to the professional.
We had an amazingly creative day, filled with coloured paper sheets, that within minutes would transfer in to flowers, sandals, fruit and everything else summer we could thing about.
Placing our swimwear on a paper and creating a story was very exciting for both of us. Talking holiday destinations and what you need while relaxing on a beach brought us some laughs, travel memories and future plans.
Enjoy our new flatlays completely made out of paper (well except put swimwear which by the way are all for sale and you can find them on our online store)
Paper artwork by Benja Harney.
You can follow his work on instagram or jump on his website to see more.
