Bound by a Common Journey, 2024

Folded paper on wood panel in acrylic case.  An intricate dance of cranes, each colourful band unique in its own way, yet all are winding toward a shared centre. This piece symbolizes the varying paths we take in life, where each individual’s sto...

Folded paper on wood panel in acrylic case.  An intricate dance of cranes, each colourful band unique in its own way, yet all are winding toward a shared centre. This piece symbolizes the varying paths we take in life, where each individual’s story is special and different from any other. Yet, no matter how different we are, we are all bound by the same journey of growth and discovery. The vibrant Chiyogami paper is hand silk-screened in Japan, and is pH neutralized by myself sheet by sheet. I use pH neutral glue and adhere to artist grade wood panels painted with a durable, acrylic paint. The acrylic case is custom-made to my specification, and installed myself. The piece comes ready to hang with either French cleat or D-rings. This piece is part of my migration series of origami assemblage. My artist statement: Andrew unearths great journeys through origami assemblage, influenced by his experience as a second generation Canadian. “We are keenly aware of our ‘otherness’, wondering if we truly belong. I fold hundreds of origami birds to honour hardships and sacrifices made by my parents’ generation. As I lay each bird in its place, I realize that the journey continues – I am still finding my way, to be accepted, by others, by myself.” The process is a cathartic, meditative practice. Always striving for perfection, taking joy in the completion of each small task, the culmination of thousands of motions to create something greater than the sum of its parts.