Jonathan Baxter

After 25 years working to have paper folding regarded as a legitimate occupation for grownups - all those paper cuts have started to pay off for Jonathan! Recognised internationally for his work in this extraordinary art form, this kiwi origami master is now at the sharp end of introducing to New Zealand a new application of origami- origami math.

With a passion for inspiring others and passing on his craft, Jonathan is renowned as an engaging speaker, teacher and performer. In 2001 he was awarded the prestigious "Michael Shall award" by the US National Origami organization for his work in promoting the art form. "With a sheet of paper, your hands and some perfect creases, you can make almost anything" he says, "its one of the most cost-effective teaching tools around!"

He is in demand as a speaker and presenter at conferences and festivals, and has been instrumental in bringing to New Zealand audiences a number of innovative exhibitions and programmes. Examples include the recent touring exhibition: Cellami, which featured complex cell-like origami models, inspired by confocal microscope imagery taken by Dr Jacqui Bond at the Forestry Research Institute.

Whether he's folding, teaching, entertaining or exhibiting, Jonathan's paper genius produces striking reminders that the ancient 'arts' of origami and mathematics are closely related.