“PAPER MORPHOSIS” - NEXUS EVENT

1st November 2025, 10am-1pm | School of Architecture, DSATM - Z535

INTRODUCTION

“Paper Morphosis”, hosted by  Z535 – School of Architecture, DSATM, exemplified this intent by transforming a simple material paper into a medium of spatial exploration and structural expression.

Conducted on 1st November 2025 at the School of Architecture, Dayananda Sagar Academy of Technology and Management (DSATM), the workshop aimed to challenge conventional notions of model-making by introducing participants to the art of origami. Through folding, cutting, and modular assembly, the event explored how twodimensional surfaces could evolve into complex three-dimensional forms. Bringing together students from multiple NASA units, the session encouraged collaboration, creativity, and hands-on experimentation.

INAUGURAL SESSION

The event commenced with an introductory session that set the tone for the workshop. The session was inaugurated by Arun Desai, who took over the opening session and introduced participants to the objectives and significance of the workshop. Participants from various architecture institutions were welcomed and familiarized with the conceptual framework of origami in design. The session emphasized the relevance of folding techniques in architectural thinking, highlighting their applications in structural systems, parametric design, and deployable forms. An interactive icebreaker further encouraged participants to engage with one another, establishing a collaborative environment from the outset.

WORKSHOP EXECUTION

The core of the event unfolded through a hands-on workshop led by Mr. Arun Desai, whose guidance provided both technical insight and creative direction. Participants were divided into smaller groups to facilitate teamwork and exchange of ideas. Each group explored a range of techniques, including precision folding, strategic cutting, and modular assembly. The workshop encouraged participants to move beyond predefined outcomes, allowing experimentation with form, scale, and repetition. Through iterative making, students began to understand how simple manipulations of paper could generate complex geometries and structural stability. The process highlighted the importance of material behavior, precision, and craftsmanship in architectural design.

The moderator addressing students about the workshop  PHOTO CREDIT : SOA - SOCIAL                              MEDIA TEAM

DISTINGUISHED GUEST & GUIDANCE

The presence of Mr. Arun Desai as the moderator played a pivotal role in shaping the learning experience. His approach emphasized not only the technical aspects of origami but also its conceptual relevance in architecture. By bridging the gap between art and structure, he encouraged participants to view paper as more than a craft material—as a tool for spatial investigation and innovation.

EVENT HIGHLIGHTS

One of the defining moments of the workshop was the transition from individual explorations to a collective installation. Each group contributed their creations to form a larger, unified composition. This installation stood as a physical representation of collaboration, where diverse ideas and approaches merged into a cohesive whole.

The diversity in forms ranging from geometric modules to organic configurations demonstrated the versatility of origami as a design medium. The process of assembling these individual components into a single installation reinforced the idea of collective authorship, a concept deeply rooted in architectural practice.

Some of models done by the participants PHOTO CREDIT : SOA - SOCIAL                              MEDIA TEAM

PARTICIPATION & RESPONSE

The event witnessed an enthusiastic participation of approximately 80 students from various NASA units, including Z502, Z504, Z508, Z511, Z512, Z518, Z520, Z531, Z533, Z535, Z536, Z538, Z551, Z562, Z563, and Z555. The diverse mix of participants contributed to a dynamic exchange of ideas, perspectives, and design approaches.

The interactive nature of the workshop fostered engagement and curiosity, with participants actively experimenting and collaborating throughout the session. The atmosphere remained vibrant and exploratory, reflecting the spirit of NEXUS as a platform for meaningful interaction.

Group photo of all the participants and organisers           PHOTO CREDIT : SOA - SOCIAL                              MEDIA TEAM

OUTCOMES & IMPACT

“Paper Morphosis” successfully demonstrated how a simple material could be used to explore complex architectural ideas. The workshop enabled participants to develop a deeper understanding of spatial transformation, modularity, and structural logic. It encouraged thinking beyond conventional model-making techniques, emphasizing process over product.

The collaborative format of the event also highlighted the importance of teamwork and collective creativity in design. By working together towards a shared outcome, participants experienced the value of interdisciplinary interaction and mutual learning.

CONCLUSION

“Paper Morphosis” stood as a testament to the potential of hands-on, experiential learning in architectural education. By merging art, design, and interaction, the event created an engaging platform for students to explore new ways of thinking and making.

The success of the workshop can be attributed to the efforts of Z535 – School of Architecture, DSATM, the guidance of Mr. Arun Desai, and the enthusiastic participation of students from various units. Such initiatives play a crucial role in broadening the scope of architectural learning, encouraging innovation, and strengthening connections within the student community.

As NEXUS continues to bring together aspiring architects through collaborative endeavors, events like “Paper Morphosis” set a strong precedent for future explorations where simple ideas evolve into meaningful design experiences.