Most people will remember a childhood when creating paper aeroplanes was popular. Modern inventions in the toy industry however, have reduced public interest in paper toys…
Most people will remember a childhood when creating paper aeroplanes was popular. Modern inventions in the toy industry however, have reduced public interest in paper toys. Today, paper is mainly used for writing and drawing. Durban University of Technology Graphic Design student Graham Wiles seeks to change this. Utilising his knowledge in the field of graphic design he has come up with innovative designs for paper toys which have completely reinvented the craft.
As part of his BTech research, Wiles, also known as Urbski, explored the art of paper folding. “As a starting point I first looked at the origins of paper and paper folding throughout the century. I read up on origami (a classic Japanese art form of creating three dimensional objects by folding paper) and looked at contemporary designs,” said Wiles.
From conducting this research, he discovered the absence of literature based on the local paper toy industry and a lack of dedicated designers of the craft. He set out to alter the latter by “exploring an exploitable niche in the South African toy market”.
His practical covers a series of paper toy designs inspired by social interaction and incorporates some of the designer’s memories as a South African. In a six-week period he held workshops with St Benedict’s School pupils in grades four and seven and first year Graphic Design students at DUT. The groups were tasked to design and construct toys with the concepts, “When I grow up”, “In my spare time” and “Good vs Evil” respectively.
Contrary to his initial doubts concerning the outcome, the designer said the workshops were a success. Thus, his goal to develop new interest in graphic design, art and paper folding was achieved. He explained the workshops enabled him to discover a target market and inspired the launch of Urbski Paper Toys. Various designs, ideal for mothers and children, pupils, students and collectors, are downloadable on his blog. Fans have the pleasure of constructing personal toys with the recommended A3 250g cardboard paper.
Wiles is currently expanding his brand, adding wallpapers, postcards and t-shirts.
Graham will be exhibiting at The Third year and BTech Graphic Design Exhibition on Tuesday, 15 November in at City Campus.
Captions
Photo 1: This proudly South African toy was designed in honour of Nelson Mandela and is the designer’s favourite.
Inspired by the popular Madiba jive, Wiles hid a small paper spring in the toy, allowing the torso to move in a dancing motion.
Photo 2: This design and a variety of others are available for download on the Urbski blog.
