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
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!