In Memoriam

by robert.lang
on January 3, 2010 - 1:47pm

While origami is an ancient art, its modern incarnation is surprisingly recent, and many of us have had the great fortune to meet and/or work with the pioneers of the art and of OrigamiUSA. The sections and forums below recall some of the greats and some of our friends who have passed on.

Lillian Oppenheimer

Origami in the U.S. was founded by Lillian Oppenheimer, whose Origami Center of America served to bring together origami aficionados from around the U.S. and, indeed, around the world. Lillian's life, contributions to origami (and to this organization), and more (including rare video interviews) may be found on our History page, here.

V'Ann Cornelius

One of the icons of OrigamiUSA was V'Ann Cornelius , who was heavily involved in the Pacific Coast Origami Conference, in bringing origami into the mainstream art world in the USA, and in the creation of OrigamiUSA's own web presence. Sadly, V'Ann passed away in early 2008 after a battle with cancer. Her friends within OrigamiUSA have put together this memorial tribute webpage.

Neal Elias

Neal Elias was one of the greats of American origami: inventor of over a thousand original designs pioneer of the techniques that became known as box-pleating, and friend and mentor to numerous folders. Neal passed away in 2005; a tribute site has been created here.

Florence Temko

Florence Temko passed on in 2009. A prolific artist, author, creator, and folder, she was beloved by generations of folders. Contribute your own memories of Florence at her memorial page here.

Vernon Isaac

Vernon Isaac (1948-2009) was a fixture at OrigamiUSA conventions, ever friendly, ever willing to teach, with a big, booming personality and a warm, infectious laugh. Contribute your own memories of Vernon at his memorial page here.

Vyda Liaugaudas

Vyda G. Liaugaudas was a long-time member of OrigamiUSA. Vyda was member # 1322 and she supported our organization and helped in many areas. Contribute your own memories of Vyda here.

Others

Would you like to create a tribute page to a worthy folder? if so, please contact the web team at .