Pune witnessed the grand inauguration of ‘Wonderfold 2023,’ an extraordinary Origami art exhibition, organized by Indutai Tilak Kala Kendra and Origami Mitra. The prestigious event took place at the Tilak Smarak Mandir on Tilak Road, graced by eminent personalities such as Architect Narendra Dengle and Sculptor Satish Ghatpande.
Distinguished figures like Dr. Deepak Tilak, great-grandson of Lokmanya Tilak and Ex-Vice Chancellor of Tilak Maharashtra Vidyapeeth, along with Dr. Geetali Tilak, Vice Chancellor of Tilak Maharashtra Vidyapeeth, and other esteemed members including Rajani Deval, Yashoda Wakankar, Sudhakar Joshi, and Milind Kelkar from Origami Mitra marked their presence on this special occasion.
Open to all enthusiasts, ‘Wonderfold 2023’ will be on display from 23rd to 26th November, welcoming visitors from 10 am to 8 pm, with an entry fee of Rs 20.
This marks the 17th edition of the biennial exhibition, but notably, it returns after a four-year hiatus due to the pandemic, as shared by Milind Kelkar, a key member of the organizing committee and a skilled Origami artist.
“Origami, a revered part of Japanese traditional art, unfolds its wonders to the world through this exhibition,” remarked Architect Narendra Dengle. He emphasized the significance of exploring various values embedded in Japanese culture from different perspectives.
Sculptor Satish Ghatpande expressed his awe at the unique transformation of a simple piece of paper into something visually captivating. “People should expand their imaginations through Origami,” he urged. Dr. Deepak Tilak shared touching memories of his mother associated with Origami, adding a personal touch to the event.
The exhibition spotlighted two exceptional young Origami artists, Manas Joshi and Aryan Kashikar, both earning well-deserved acclaim. Manas specializes in ‘Unit’ Origami, while Aryan holds a prestigious Guinness World Record in the art.
Origami, a traditional Japanese art form that breathes life into miniature paper creations, showcased 500 art pieces crafted by approximately 35 to 40 Origami Artists from Pune and Mumbai. Notably, the exhibition received contributions from Sweden, adding an international flair to the showcase.
A breathtaking array of exhibits, including lampshades, animals, birds, flowers, mandalas, quilts, abstract and geometrical patterns, musical instruments, and architectural wonders, adorned the venue. Pradnya Kashikar expertly anchored the program, enhancing the overall experience for attendees.
In the realm of folded wonders, ‘Wonderfold 2023’ stands not just as an exhibition but as a testament to the boundless creativity that unfolds when imagination meets the delicate precision of Origami.
