Porcelain Is Transformed Into Stunning Origami-Inspired Art That Defies Perception

Origami has long captivated us with its charming simplicity, transforming mere sheets of paper into intricate forms like boats and airplanes; a nostalgic journey back to childhood crafts. Saori Matsushita’s latest creations evoke this sense of wonder, appealing to the child within us who once fashioned objects from torn notebook pages. However, these aren’t paper artifacts; they’re exquisite porcelain pieces designed for everyday use.

Designer: Saori Matsushita

At first glance, her pieces appear to be fragile paper artifacts, lined notebook pages torn from a schoolbook, crumpled paper airplanes, or even fabric-like pouches and shirts. However, these are not made from paper or cloth but from intricately sculpted porcelain, shaped with precision and care to mimic the textures and folds of everyday materials.

From mugs and vases to sculptures, Matsushita’s work blurs the line between material and illusion. Small details like perforated binder holes and frayed edges make each piece even more convincing, almost inviting you to test its flexibility, until you remember it’s ceramic.

Matsushita employs the intricate Nerikomi technique to craft her remarkably lifelike porcelain pieces. Rather than applying surface decoration through glazing or painting, she stacks layers of differently pigmented clay and then carves through them to expose dynamic, embedded patterns. This process seamlessly integrates color and texture into the very structure of the porcelain, giving it an authenticity reminiscent of ruled notebook paper and other familiar materials.

Her journey into this technique began in 2023, marking a shift in her artistic approach. Previously, she worked with Neriage, a process that also involves colored clays but focuses on wheel-thrown forms. By transitioning to Nerikomi, Matsushita began treating porcelain sheets like origami paper or even leather, allowing her to develop a more distinctive and personal style.

While many of her creations serve as decorative pieces, they have a unique way of elevating the spaces they inhabit. A simple mug that looks like folded notebook paper or a vase shaped like a crumpled sheet transforms the ordinary into something thought-provoking, making viewers question the true nature of materials.

With her signature style gaining recognition, Matsushita continues to refine her craft, pushing the boundaries of what porcelain can become. Her work is not just about aesthetics but about capturing the essence of transformation, turning rigid ceramic into something that looks as light as air. For those who appreciate art that challenges perception, Matsushita’s creations offer a delightful blend of nostalgia, craftsmanship, and pure visual trickery.

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