Is Origami An Art Or Craft?

Origami is an ancient Japanese art of making various artifacts and models by folding paper. Origami originated because the ancient Japanese considered it a sin to cut paper, which was an important medium for transmitting knowledge. From its humble origin as a technique to avoid cutting or tearing paper, origami has now gained the status of an art form.

Art or Craft-Understand The Difference
There is a lot of debate on the point of origami being an art or being "simply" a craft?" According to experts, craft is something that is made. For example, the craft of pottery-making, blacksmithing or even basket making, all these refer to the creation of tangible things. This argument strengthens the fact that origami is a craft. However, if origami is a craft, then how can it be art?

Art is something that is added to the craft that is original and unique. This uniqueness elevates craft to become a piece of art. The artisan thereby also becomes an artist. La Fosse’s rightly states it: "I believe that art is the unique contribution that any individual can give to their chosen craft".

Traditionally, we may perceive art to be beautiful or something that has beauty. However, this is not necessarily true as a work of art may be beautiful, or equally frightening. All that matters is that the art express the truth. If one folds paper in a routine way, merely copying a model, it is craft but it is probably not art. However, if you fold the paper carefully and try to make your model unique, something that other people will admire, it may well be an art. Another thing that distinguishes art from craft is creation.

Even though something skillfully crafted may also be art but it does not imply that it is great. The difference between craft and art is the degree of originality of spirit. Pure art is beyond the scope of words to contain its essence. Pure art can never be replicated. If it is coped then it only becomes diluted and remains just a craft. I doubt whether origami creations could ever become great art on the level of Shakespeare, Bach or Leonardo. In simple words, if you can create a unique and original model out of origami with an impression of life and spirit in it, it will truly qualify to be craft and art.

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