Fascinated by Paper
As an engineer with a great passion for art, it was natural for me to combine art and technology. The material “paper” is perfectly suited for this purpose.
Even as a child, I was fascinated by having a blank sheet of paper in front of me and thinking about all the things that could be created from it. With the origami technique, complex geometric shapes can be folded from simple paper - the possibilities seem endless.
I have seen many paper artworks, but hardly any instructions for making them yourself that go beyond individual figures (such as animals, flowers, kusudamas). However, thanks to my engineering knowledge and strong spatial visualization skills, I was able to create my own cutting patterns and developments digitally. I then cut, folded, glued and arranged the paper parts into an artwork. The result delighted me.
Paper, Geometry and Art United
Larigami is a self-created term that combines my first name (Larisa) with the Japanese word for paper art (Origami).
It describes an art form that takes the fundamentals of geometry as a starting point and transforms them into abstract, three-dimensional wall reliefs made of paper. Through varied light reflection, the overall effect changes depending on the viewer’s perspective. The main theme is the interaction between light and shadow, contrasts, and the recurring patterns created by the folds and textures in the artwork. These patterns and textures create a deeper visual impact and allow the viewer to discover the rich facets of Larigami.
The developments and cutting patterns of the virtual objects create a special presence during and after their processing. The characteristic shapes and structures unfold a reality between spatial dimensions. The two-dimensional patterns printed on fragile, thin paper - originating from a virtual three-dimensional environment - carry the construction plan of a spatial body and leave their flat plane as soon as they are cut out and folded.
Creation Process
To realize my creative projects, I design geometric shapes using a 3D computer program, whose developments serve as cutting patterns for producing my paper sculptures. Measurements and calculations play an important role in the area of form and its construction.
Once the individual shapes are cut out by hand, they all need to be manually folded and glued. This part of the process is repeated many times, as each relief consists of numerous individual bodies. This is very calming and relaxing - almost like meditation - which is why I also enjoy this part of the creative process. After hours of folding and gluing, when all the shapes are finished, the entire panel can be arranged and assembled by gluing on the bodies.