2023 Origami Convention

Every year the Origami Association of the United States of America hosts a convention in New York City.  It has been a while since we’ve been able to attend becuase of COVID, but this year we made our return.  We were especially excited about teaching some new designs and selling some of our just-released jumbo origami paper.

Taro’s Elephant

The first model that the Taro’s team of Frank Ling and Jeff Raab taught was the original elephant design by Taro Yaguchi.  This model was specifically designed by Taro for the Huname Society Gala last year.  The model had a few really complex maneuvers but everyone had a great time working through the model.

Frank’s Car

For the next class, Frank Ling taught his original car model.  He designed it for a Mercedes Benz Maybach event, and also made his own diagrams for the model.  One of the tricky parts of teaching classes at convention is making sure the models are fun to fold and also easy enough to teach.  Frank’s class had a full group of students and he did a great job teaching the model as well.

Jeff’s Animals

The third and final class taught by the Taro’s team at the convention was with Senior Artist Jeff Raab. Since he started teaching origami, Jeff has been designing his own models (mostly animals) to teach specific origami techniques and concepts. He taught three of his easiest models – a cardinal, a skunk, and a goose – that demonstrate how even models with simple sequences can be artistically satisfying. All three models are 5th Kyu level. It was a joy to watch him teach his pieces. These models were also part of the preliminary design work for our Elementary Origami book. It was a real treat to teach fellow folders from all over the world and we look forward to next year!