Origami is a great tool to help to help describe items to visually impaired people. One of my friends is one of the few people who has no sight at all so it is difficult to explain what say an elephant looks like so she can then imagine it. We try to find items that resemble what we are trying to describe. An origami elephant can be felt so she know what a trunk is etc. size wise it doesn't always help, but it gives her some idea what she is feeling looks like. Origami itself can get squashed quite easily so a more substantial, but more expensive, alternative is origami jewellery.
Claire Naa and Arnaud Soulignac, inspired by the artistry of Japanese origami and shown how to fol paper into the intricate folds by their friend Masayuki Muraki established "Origami Jewellery". Their first collection was paper and thread. The duo then went to Japan to find the correct manufacturing processes which could translate their intricate designs into precious metals. Their first metal design was produced in 2008, the Tsuru symbol of peace. Origami Jewellery have expanded their range to include rabbits, deer, Pegasus, triceratops and adorable bats to name but a few. The pieces come in different finishes, sterling silver plated in rose gold, gold or gun metal and there are also some mini versions too. There are charms for bracelets, earrings, cuff links and pendants They have also expanded the design to include frame designs and pieces with coloured panels. They are the pinnacle of origami jewellery and expensive £80 for frame designs. £102 for the mini and £120 for the larger ones. A lot of thought has gone into the design and manufacture of these pieces and they are very realistic and tactile to look at and feel.
John Greed's Safari Collection is a more affordable alternative. Rhodium plated silver rings, necklaces, earrings and bracelets, prices range from £19.95 to £29.95. Some of the items are cartoonish and they aren't as intricately made but some of the items do resemble the real life version!
I purchased a gold toned geometric rabbit via Amazon UK for £5. Not true origami as it's back is flat, it does, however, give an idea of what a rabbit looks like, how it has a tail and long ears etc.
Links:
Pegasus necklace Sugartrends €140.00 (mini available), different finishes
Lion necklace Wolf and Badger £120 (mini also available) different finishes
Triceratops Wolf and Badger £120 , different finishes
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