Inspired by themes of transportation and transformation, the art creates a welcoming space where visitors make connections and employees write their own stories.

FL 04 / Matthew Shlian

Ara 456

The Ara series (currently at 633) is an exploration of Islamic tiling systems through paper folding. Ara 456 is a four-sided array pattern that appears to either be growing or eroding, as large complex symmetrical shapes transition to simpler ones. This piece attempts to capture the buried/unearthed dichotomy and diversity of the Madaba mosaics, and the ever-changing elements represent the transformative nature of stories that shape the way we see the world.

Beginning with an initial fold, a single action causes a transfer of energy to subsequent folds, which manifests in drawings and three-dimensional forms. Shlian uses his engineering skills to create kinetic sculpture, leading to collaborations with scientists at the University of Michigan. Researchers see paper engineering as a metaphor for scientific principles; he sees their inquiry as a basis for artistic inspiration.

 

About the Artist

Matthew Shlian is an artist/designer in Ann Arbor, Michigan. His work in paper extends from drawings to large-scale installations. His work for the National Science Foundation explores paper folding structures on the macro level translated to the nanoscale. His client list includes Ghostly International, Apple, P&G, Facebook, Levi’s, Sesame Street, and the Queen of Jordan. View more of Matt’s work on his website or on Instagram.