Submitted by: Paddy Tutty, Fine Arts, Saskatoon Public Library

 

Playing with Pop-ups: The Art of Dimensional, Moving Paper Designs 

Published 2014 by Helen Hiebert

Playing with Pop-Ups

745.54 HIEB (Frances Morrison Central Library)

Paper artist Helen Hiebert guides the reader through the intriguing world of “movables”, pop-ups, origami architecture, and other forms of the art of transforming paper from two dimensions to three.

Chapter 1 begins with a brief history, citing examples from the 13th century to the current development by “paper engineers”. Required tools, materials and techniques are explained as beginning projects are introduced.

Chapter 2 includes several whimsical projects with full instructions, including pop-up cards, carousel books, an accordion book, a tunnel book, and a rotating “volvelle”. These hands-on projects are well-explained, and provide ample room for engagement and ingenuity. Templates are included in the back and are also downloadable.

Chapter 3 features a gallery showcasing the beautiful work of renowned contemporary paper artists. I find this section of the book the most inspiring, as the artwork illustrates the extensive possibilities of the medium of pop-ups and paper engineering.

I find the moveable carousel pop-up book very charming, with its hand drawn sketches of kitchen tables and washing hanging on the line. I would love to tackle projects such as the pop-up dragon card and the pop-up rib cage!

I would recommend this colourful, well put together book. I look forward to having some time to experiment with this medium, both as an entertainment and towards a fine art!