While many appreciate the intricacies of devices like transistor radios or timepieces, artist Manabu Kosaka takes this curiosity to extraordinary heights. With only paper as his medium, Kosaka crafts detailed scale models of cameras, watches, gaming consoles, shoes, food, and other items. One of his creations, a 35mm film camera, is complete with a strap, a functioning back hatch, and movable gears, showcasing his exceptional attention to detail.
About a decade ago, Kosaka was uncertain about his artistic path. He recalls, “During that time, I spoke with a friend who works in art direction, and they suggested that I try creating with simpler materials in a more minimal way,” as he shared with Colossal. This conversation led him to focus on paper, ultimately choosing it as his exclusive material.
Through precise cutting, folding, and scoring, Kosaka produces remarkably lifelike representations of everyday objects, often with a nostalgic flair. He meticulously examines the mechanics of real items, disassembling them to replicate their individual components. His current project involves crafting a model of the Playstation 2 console, initially launched in 2000.
Kosaka expresses his admiration for paper, saying, “What I love most about paper is its incredible flexibility. It responds to my ideas almost completely—beyond what I expect, even. It allows me to express what I want in a very direct way, while also feeling that it can become almost anything.”
Explore more of his work on his Instagram.
