Valentin Stavrev

Statement

This work explores the construction of spatial paper ornaments from flat elements. It began with intuitive geometric constructions and evolved into more rigorous generalisations, opening up new possibilities through their rich symmetry. Since pure geometric figures can be boring, I adopted an alternative approach to extract the constructive principles and develop new designs based on those principles. The final result is a generative algorithm. Papersparx, as we call them, are rooted in a unique class of polyhedra built from flat polygons that meet around a shared centre of symmetry. The paper assemblage, without glue or folding, achieves unexpected rigidity solely through precise alignment thanks to the interlocking of its flexible parts.

Artworks

Paper star in the European tradition of Christmas ornaments. It is constructed from flatpacked elements, with geometry derived from the cuboctahedron.

Spatial paper ornament over Icosidodecahedron hull. Assembled from flat-packed parts. No glue or folding is used. Self-rigidified web structure.