Inspired by the traditional Japanese story that folding 1,000 origami cranes (千羽鶴) will make one’s wish come true, Paper Sharks is a project that aims to raise support and awareness for shark conservation. Traditionally, the crane has been revered as a legendary creature in Japan – said to live a thousand years and having the power to bestow luck or grant one’s wish. While sharks may not hold the same reputation in the minds of most people, as an animal that has lived on this planet for millions of years, perhaps they deserve far more respect than they have been given.
By folding origami sharks and creating an online collection of photos submitted by supporters around the world, it is hoped that others will be inspired to do what they can to make a difference. Anyone wanting to show their support for shark conservation may use the patterns I have created to fold their own paper shark and upload a photo of it to the gallery. By creating an online collection of paper sharks, I would like to create a “visual” petition – shark conservation supporters represented not just as a number of signatures, but through a medium that is more personal, meaningful and has more visual impact. In addition to organizing a collaborative online collection of paper sharks, I will also be sharing my progress as I fold 1,000 paper sharks (千匹鮫) as a personal project. Anyone interested in taking on the 1,000 paper shark challenge along with me is asked to please share their story by posting a comment to this page or by contacting me. I will be happy to add your project to the site!
Currently PaperSharks.org is a small, newly-launched project, but I would like it see it grow and become something more. If you can contribute any of your skills, input, comments or suggestions, I would love to hear from you! Thank you for your support,
My Thousand Paper Sharks Progress
