Mel Sawyer
As an artist, I am driven by a profound fascination with the intersection of art and mathematics. Modular origami serves as the conduit through which I fuse my creative and mathematical tendencies, revealing a new dimension of artistic expression. While pursuing my studies in mathematics and computer science at Columbia University, I yearned for a platform where I could seamlessly integrate my artistic inclinations, but often felt constrained by the black-and-white thinking of engineering coursework.
Conventional wisdom often segregates the realms of creativity and logic into distinct hemispheres of the brain. Yet, it is at their convergence that an entirely new way of thinking emerges.
Among my array of creations, modular lamps stand as a testament to this. The act of illuminating origami structures with light not only unveils the intricacies of the paper but also showcases the complexity inherent in geometric forms. Each of my lamps requires over 10 hours of meticulous folding and assembly, with some of my most elaborate pieces requiring upwards of 1000 individual units folded and assembled over a span of 3 to 6 months.
I love exploring color - another example of mathematics discreetly present in art. I often paint my paper to achieve interesting and harmonious color combinations. The mathematics behind this harmony are compelling and provide me with never-ending interesting problems to solve.
Above all, I strive to create art that challenges perceptions and captivates the imagination. Many who encounter my work are intrigued by its depth and complexity, encouraging them to reconsider the boundaries of artistic expression.
Address: 1435 NE Junior St Portland OR 97211
Paper | Origami
Community: NE Portland
Studio Number: 26
Email: melaniensawyer@gmail.com
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