The Levels of Complexity in Origami: The Iconic Cicada
Summary
In this article, we delve into the world of origami with renowned artist and physicist Robert J. Lang. He walks us through the seven levels of complexity in origami, each of which adds increasing challenges and unique folds to the traditional Japanese cicada. Circle packing is used to add details and realism to the design. Four origami designs by the author, each increasing in complexity, are also shared.
Table of Contents
- The Seven Levels of Complexity in Origami
- Circle Packing Techniques in Origami
- Four Origami Designs by Robert J. Lang
- Conclusion
The Seven Levels of Complexity in Origami
Q: How many levels of complexity are there in origami?
A: There are seven levels of complexity in origami.
Q: What is the first level of complexity?
A: The first level involves a handmade Japanese cicada design consisting of simple valley folds that are easy to fold.
Q: What does the second level involve?
A: The second level incorporates petal folds and swivel folds that enable longer wings and colored eyes.
Q: What is added in the third level?
A: The third level adds squash and crimp folds to shape the wings and body, giving it a three-dimensional roundedness.
Q: What does the fourth level involve?
A: The fourth level involves using the complex base structure of eight bird bases folded together to create a more realistic representation with six legs and other features of a cicada.
Q: What is added in the fifth level?
A: The fifth level adds antennae and uses rectangular base patterns.
Q: What do levels six and seven involve?
A: Levels six and seven are intended to create thin and delicate legs that do not come from the center of the paper. These designs require planning and challenging folds such as closed sin and closed unwrap folds.
Circle Packing Techniques in Origami
Q: What is circle packing?
A: Circle packing is a technique used in origami to represent features of a design, such as the eyes, with various sized circles.
Q: How does circle packing add detail and realism to the design?
A: By using circle packing, the design can have more curves and contours, making it appear more realistic.
Q: Are there limits to circle packing?
A: Yes, as the complexity of a design increases, the folds required become more unique and do not have names, making it difficult to plan the size and placement of the circles.
Four Origami Designs by Robert J. Lang
Q: What are the four origami designs shared by the author?
A: The four designs shared by the author are increasing in complexity and involve more delicate legs, teardrop-shaped wings, longer flaps, pointed and spined claws, and more structure on the abdomen.
Q: What is the final design of the author?
A: The final design is a classic cicada pattern, which appears simple but actually has the most complex folds of all the designs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Robert J. Lang has shared his knowledge on the seven levels of complexity in origami and the use of circle packing to add details and realism to the designs. His four origami designs highlight the increasing complexity of origami as well as the unique folds required at higher levels. Happy folding!
