SOLD OUT

The last 15 years have been witness to a revolution in the application of mathematical techniques to origami, the centuries-old Japanese art of paper-folding. Exhibiting artist Robert J. Lang is recognized as one of the foremost origami artists in the world as well as a pioneer in computational origami and the development of formal design algorithms for folding.

In this talk, he will describe how geometric concepts led to the solution of a broad class of origami folding problems—specifically, the problem of efficiently folding a shape with an arbitrary number and arrangement of flaps—and, along the way, enabling origami designs of mind-blowing complexity and realism. The algorithms and theorems of origami design have shed light on long-standing mathematical questions and have solved practical engineering problems—Lang will present examples of how origami has enabled safer airbags, Brobdingnagian space telescopes, and more.

Free with museum admission.

This program is sold out. To be placed on a waitlist, please email rsvp@janm.org.

Presented with support from the Consulate General of Japan in Los Angeles.

Photo: Robert Lang, Pentasia, 2014. Photo courtesy of the artist.