Fall Festivals in Folding Art: A Celebration of Culture, Craft, and Community
Fall Festivals in Folding Art, on display from September 26 through November 2, invites visitors to explore the beauty of autumn through the delicate and expressive medium of origami. Inspired by fall festivals around the world, each honoring the past, celebrating the present, and kindling hope for the future, this installation showcases folded paper creations that reflect the symbols, objects, and spirit of these diverse cultural traditions.
From lanterns and harvest motifs to animals and abstract forms, each piece is a tribute to the shared humanity that binds us across borders and generations. The installation is more than just a visual feast—it’s a reminder of the joy, gratitude, and togetherness that define the season.
Meet the Artists Behind the Folds
Chuck Via
Chuck Via transforms paper into poetry. What began with a ream of orange paper and a spark of curiosity led to a breathtaking installation of 270 origami koi swimming across his room. Unable to draw a straight line, Chuck discovered he could fold one—and that simple act unlocked a new creative path.
Now a member of the Arizona Origami Society, Chuck continues to refine his craft and share his work through miniature shadowbox versions of his koi installation, bringing movement, imagination, and a touch of wonder to every piece. His latest installation, Troubling 366, is currently on display at the Phoenix Center for the Arts, featuring swirling koi and a pod of orcas in a dynamic stairwell display.
Jacob Hedgpeth
For Jacob Hedgpeth, origami is a lifelong love. His earliest creative memory is making paper planes with his grandfather, and since discovering the Arizona Origami Society in 2013, his passion has soared. Jacob’s intricate models have been featured at OrigamiUSA Conventions and the local Matsuri Festival, where his work continues to captivate audiences.
Jacob embraces the slow, intentional nature of origami, finding beauty in the mundane and transforming everyday objects into extraordinary folded forms. His art invites viewers to pause and reflect—reminding us that even the simplest piece of paper holds infinite possibilities.
The artists would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Kevin Hedgpeth, Gail Hedgpeth, Troy Bastin, and Cathy Wilimzig for their incredible contributions to the origami installation.
Join Us for an Origami Folding Workshop
To celebrate the season and bring the community together, a free, hands-on Origami Community Workshop will be held on Saturday, October 4 at 10 AM at Heritage Marketplace Park. Led by artists Chuck Via and Jacob Hedgpeth, this fun-filled event invites participants of all ages to learn the art of folding and create their own seasonal masterpieces. Whether you’re a curious beginner or a seasoned folder, this workshop is a perfect way to connect, create, and celebrate fall.
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