Jun Maekawa is a Japanese origami artist, mathematician, and software engineer whose work has fundamentally shaped the field of technical origami. Unlike traditional origami, which emphasizes representational form, Maekawa’s approach is characterized by rigorous geometric principles, most notably the . This paper explores Maekawa’s transition from a hobbyist to a theorem-proving artist, his key mathematical contributions, his signature design philosophy (including the "Maekawa's Devil"), and his influence on modern origami education and computational design.
An earlier work highlighting his innovative approach to designing life-like figures. Legacy in Paper Engineering
If you are interested in trying some of his designs,experts? Where to purchase his book ?
While he has designed countless creatures and forms, he is often associated with the structural, geometric, and whimsical creatures found in his book, Genuine Origami . Influence on the Origami Community
Published by Japan Publications Trading, this book is considered a cornerstone for intermediate folders looking to improve their skills.
Jun Maekawa exemplifies the modern origami master: part artist, part mathematician, part engineer. Through the Maekawa-Justin Theorem, he provided a rigorous rule for foldability. Through models like the Devil, he proved that mathematical constraints can yield striking, expressive art. In an era where origami informs fields from stent design to space telescopes, Maekawa’s foundational work remains as relevant as ever. He is a testament to the beauty that emerges when the precise logic of geometry meets the humble sheet of paper.
