UNFOLDING MAPS: 3D TO 2D AND BACK

The highly anticipated workshop Unfolding Maps: 3D to 2D and Back, hosted under the leadership of YFLO Hyderabad Chairperson Ridhi Jain, took place on September 13th, 2024, at the Kalakriti Art Gallery in Hyderabad. This unique event brought together FLO and YFLO members, including past chairpersons and committee members, in a celebration of art, history, and culture.

The event featured renowned architect, landscape designer, and origami pioneer Ankon Mitra, whose groundbreaking work in folding art was paired with Prashant Lahoti’s passion for history. Lahoti, the curator of the vast Kalakriti Archives—a remarkable collection of vintage maps, photographs, and artifacts from the Indian subcontinent—joined forces with Mitra to create a stunning fusion of cartography and sculpture. Together, they reimagined the historical art of map-making through the innovative lens of origami.

The exhibition displayed rare and unique maps from the Kalakriti Archives, including Indian pilgrimage routes, vibrant bazaar maps, and intricately detailed city maps. These historical gems were elevated by Ankon Mitra’s visionary origami sculptures, which added a fresh dimension to traditional cartography by merging historical craftsmanship with contemporary art.

Event Highlights:

• Infinity Room: A 360-degree immersive visual experience showcasing the boundless possibilities of art and space.
• Ceiling Installations: Striking origami-inspired ceiling installations enhanced the gallery’s ambiance.
• Live Demonstrations: Ankon Mitra captivated the audience with live paper-folding demonstrations, offering a glimpse into the intricate process behind his extraordinary creations.

Chairperson Ridhi Jain opened the event with a graceful and inspiring address, expressing her deep appreciation for art and culture.

The workshop concluded with an engaging interactive session, where attendees had the opportunity to connect with Ankon Mitra and Prashant Lahoti. This event offered a truly memorable exploration of India’s cultural heritage, blending the traditional with the contemporary through the captivating mediums of origami and cartography.