Folding Fractions: Origami and Math with Kuniko Yamamoto—Kennedy Center Workshop

Looking for something highly mathematical, packed with geometry and fractions? Origami-the art of folding paper-is the answer! Award winning origami artist & storyteller, Kuniko, will introduce you to the art form of origami and how to fold a variety of origami models so students can create folding patterns that demonstrate their understanding of shapes, angles, and geometric attributes. Origami is deeply intertwined with mathematics. World-class mathematicians, engineers, and scientists are leveraging the principles of origami crease patterns to generate innovative ideas.Math vocabulary will begin to make sense to students and fractions will become obvious as the creasing paper patterns turn into artistic creations! A native of Japan, Kuniko also folds her cultural perspectives and math games into every workshop.

The Partners in Education program of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts is designed to support local school systems by providing professional learning in the arts for teachers. Workshops are open to any area teacher or school administrator, and are a fun, valuable opportunity to gain contact hours towards Continuing Education Credits (CEUs). Inducted in 2010, the Mansfield team is one of less than 100 partnership sites in the nation, and includes: The Mansfield City Schools, The Mansfield Art Center, and The Renaissance Performing Arts Organization. The Ohio 2010 team is generously sponsored by Charles P. Hahn of Cleveland Financial, with additional funding from the Ohio Arts Council.

About Kuniko Yamamoto

Kuniko, a native of Japan and an award-winning theatre performer and artist, embarked on her journey to the United States in 1985 to study theatre. For the past two decades, she has captivated audiences with her solo shows, “Japanese Storytelling with Magical Mask, Mime, and Music” and “Origami Tales,” performing at prestigious venues such as Disney Epcot Center, The Kennedy Center, and the National Storytelling Festival. Her enchanting presentations foster cross-cultural communication and understanding in an entertaining and engaging manner. As a dedicated teaching artist, Kuniko has inspired and educated students in over 2,000 schools and colleges with her unique Origami & Math workshops. Tampa Tribune praises her as a “Magical Teacher!”

Our Sponsors

Cleveland Financial Group—Charles P. Hahn, CFP
With Support from Ohio Arts Council