Japanese Art - Where did Origami come from? (Primary School Art Lesson)

Summary

In this art lesson, the focus is on origami, an ancient Japanese craft that began with the Chinese invention of paper. The video explores the history of origami, from its early use by Buddhist monks to its rise as a symbol of elegance among the wealthy. The lesson also highlights the significance of the crane in Japanese culture, representing good luck and longevity. Viewers are encouraged to try their hand at creating their own origami pieces with simple materials and patience, making this relaxing activity accessible to everyone.

Takeaways

• 😀 Origami is an ancient Japanese art of paper folding that can be used to create various pieces of art from a single square sheet of paper.
• 😀 The main objective of the lesson is to understand what origami is and to create some origami pieces of your own.
• 😀 To start origami, you need a square piece of paper, a flat surface, and patience. Optional materials include a marker or colored pencils.
• 😀 Origami does not require scissors, glue, or tape. Everything is made through precise paper folding.
• 😀 The history of origami dates back to China, where paper was invented around 100 BCE. Japanese traders brought the paper folding art to Japan.
• 😀 In ancient Japan, paper was expensive, and only the wealthy or religious figures could afford to practice origami.
• 😀 The first origami pieces in Japan were likely made by Buddhist monks for religious ceremonies and symbolic offerings.
• 😀 Origami gained popularity among the upper class of Japan and was seen as an elegant activity for rich ladies.
• 😀 The Japanese crane is a well-known symbol in origami, believed to live for a thousand years and representing good luck and longevity.
• 😀 A traditional belief in Japan is that if you make 1,000 origami cranes, you can make a wish that will come true.
• 😀 Origami is not only a Japanese art but has spread globally, allowing people to create a wide variety of objects with just a square piece of paper.

Q & A

What is the main goal of the lesson on origami?

The main goal is to understand what origami is and to create some origami pieces of our own.

What is the KWL chart and how is it used in this lesson?

The KWL chart is a tool where 'K' stands for what you already know, 'W' for what you wonder or want to know, and 'L' is for what you've learned by the end of the lesson.

What are the basic materials needed to get started with origami?

You need a flat surface to work on, square pieces of paper, a marker or coloring pencil, and patience.

How many pieces of paper are typically used in origami models?

Origami models are typically made from just one square piece of paper, with no glue or scissors involved.

What is the historical origin of origami?

Origami originated in China, where paper was invented, and was later brought to Japan by traders. The Japanese then developed it into the art form we recognize today.

Why was origami initially only practiced by the wealthy in Japan?

Origami was expensive to practice because paper was rare and costly, so only the wealthy or religious groups could afford to use it.

What is the cultural significance of the origami crane in Japan?

The origami crane is a symbol of good luck and long life in Japanese culture. It is believed that making 1,000 cranes can grant a wish.

How does origami connect with Japanese religious ceremonies?

Buddhist monks in Japan were likely the first to make origami, using it in religious ceremonies as symbols and offerings.

What is the purpose of the origami activity in the lesson?

The activity is designed to give students hands-on experience with origami, encouraging creativity and patience as they fold paper into art.

What practical tip is given for creating square origami paper from A4 sheets?

To create a square from A4 paper, fold along a dotted line to form a small rectangle, then cut off the extra piece at the bottom.