I don’t know about you, but I have to lie down and rest after wrestling one square of origami paper into a crane, let alone folding hundreds, none bigger than a quarter and all connected because they’re made from a single sheet of paper!
The insane art of renzuru has been practiced in Japan since the 1700s, but Argentinian artist Paula Pietranera is taking it to a whole new level.
Not only is each one satisfyingly perfect, Pietranera trained in sumi-e painting as well as renzuru, so the interconnected birds are mounted on backgrounds that are works of art in themselves.
Naturally, in typical Japanese style, the closer you look, the more beautiful it becomes
The cranes, the formation in which they’re arranged, and the background all come together to express an idea that is greater than the sum of its parts.
“Think the fold. Be the fold. Forget the fold.
Everything in my art is about interconnectedness … coming alive, like a dreamcatcher that lures the true self to a place of deep intimacy. The closeness of this connection is what inspires me, because intimate togetherness with oneself, with others, and with the world can be our deepest yearning and also our biggest fear.“
—Artist Paula Pietranera
Pietranera’s new work takes this idea even further, as the painting and cranes fade in and out of each other, interacting in whole new ways. Scroll down slowly to soak up the goodness of this new piece entitled “Whisper“…
I know you’re asking where you can see these gorgeous wonders, and if you live within driving distance of San Francisco, it’s your lucky day! An exhibition of Paula Pietranera’s latest work will open next week:
Exhibition name: CONNECTION
Dates: 11/3 — 11/6, 2022
Opening/Reception: Friday 11/4, 5:00pm-8:00pm
Hours: 9:30am to 7:00pm
Location: San Francisco Zen Center’s Conference Center
308 Page Street, San Francisco
Admission: Free
Special bonus: The artist will be on hand throughout the exhibition to answer questions and talk about her work.
If you’re geographically challenged, you can still enjoy the fabulousness and see her work on her website.
•
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The Last Tea Bowl Thief was chosen as an Editor’s Pick for
Best Mystery, Thriller & Suspense on Amazon
“A fascinating mix of history and mystery.” —Booklist
•
Jonelle Patrick writes novels set in Japan, produces the monthly e-magazine Japanagram, and blogs at Only In Japan and The Tokyo Guide I Wish I’d Had
Only In Japan 