You are on page 1of 2

Chris K.

Palmer is a professional artist who has been drawing


and doing origami since childhood. He graduated from the
University of California at Santa Cruz with a degree in Fine Art in
1990 and soon after decided to continue his studies abroad. Chris
traveled to Granada, Spain, to visit some friends and ended up
in love with the Alhambra, a medieval Moorish castle. He lived in
the caves of Sacremonte and visited the castle for six months to
sketch the mosaic tilings. He has continued these studies to the
present, and the splendor of the castle continues to be the artists
greatest source of inspiration.
Soon after his return he learned about a modern branch of
paperfolding called "hira-ori" (flat-fold) from the works of Shuzo
Fujimoto. Following Fujimotos example, and with the invaluable
aid of artist Jeremy Shafer, Chris studied and developed this kind
of paperfolding.
His efforts have been internationally recognized, including an
invitation to Japan to present his work in 1994. Chris was able to
meet with Mr. Fujimoto and continues to be inspired by Fujimoto's
creative spirit. Chris views his own work as watering the garden
that Fujimoto planted.
After several years of persistent effort and study, in 1995 the artist
made the leap from paperfolding to pleating textile. Chriss unique
combination of expertise in the geometry of tilings, origami
(paperfolding) and traditional textile pleating techniques and the
innovative vision to combine these skills made this development
possible. Each discipline has augmented and complemented the
others, producing significant innovations in all three.

Traditional geometric tessellations are expressed in a variety of


mediums that include ceramic tiles, wood, metal, plaster, paint,
and tapestry. "Shadowfolds" are traditional patterns expressed in
the new medium of folded cloth. The material is continuous; no
cutting or piecing is involved. Shadowfolds often have four distinct
patterns: the front, the back, and the front and back "shadow
patterns" which are formed when light shining through is blocked
by multiple layers of fabric.
Chris has also created a variety of flowers and stars. Some are
3-dimensional and one can both lie flat and stand up to form a
"Flower Tower"!
Chris is currently busy tapping into the enormous potential of
Shadowfolds. He is very excited about his work in fashion with
David Rodriguez in New York and is looking forward to working
with designers and architects, introducing his work in the world
of interior design.

Chris K. Palmer 1227 Lorene Dr. Suite 12, Pasadena, MD 21122, tel: 410-760-8249
email: chris@shadowfolds.com
Shadowfolds are a rich blend of traditional patterns
expressed in a contemporary style. This combination of
the old and new evokes the sense of timelessness
associated with tradition and at the same time the sense
of exciting innovation so prevalent in our time. The
foundation on tradition allows these designs to complement
the architecture and interior decoration of many cultures
and periods.

Especially significant are the patterns derived from medieval


tilings in the Middle East. Many patterns expressed as
Shadowfolds are based on geometrical tilings found in
the Alhambra and throughout the vast region dominated
by the styles of this period.

The importance of the Japanese paperfolding origin of


this work and the elegant minimalism of the simpler
designs appeal to the Asian design sense. The designs
resemble in both form and function the lattice work found
in traditional architecture in China, Japan, India, and
throughout the Islamic world.

Some applications of Shadowfold textiles include room


partitions, window treatments, lampshades, wall hangings
(backlit), and fashion. The designs can be executed in a
wide variety of fabrics depending on the application.
Currently Chris offers a wide variety of patterns, some of
which are presented in the web portfolio, as well as the
ability to compose a pattern appropriate to a particular
setting. These are custom-fitted according to the setting
of the piece. Works are commissioned from the artist.

Contact: Chris K. Palmer


1227 Lorene Dr. Suite 12
Pasadena, MD 21122
tel: 410-760-8249
email: chris@shadowfolds.com

You might also like