In an era of electronic gadgetry, one person refuses to go digital. Making his living from a dying medium, Marshall Alexander folds and combines paper into cereal-box-shaped creations. In fact, he’s made a brand out of it--Foldskool Heroes.
Alexander's works are one-piecers, meaning that they can be made out of a single flat piece of paper. His creations aren't your standard, run-of-the-mill papercrafts. There's a dead, rotting bird complete with maggots. A caveman. Frankenstein. An enlightened yoga master. The neat thing is that you can print most of these characters out for your own enjoyment.
Photos are from Marshall Alexander's Flickr page.
Bizarre Paper Figures
DIY 'Foldskool Heroes' Includes Rotting Birds, Frankenstein and Cavemen
Trend Themes
1. DIY Paper Crafts - This trend presents an opportunity for businesses to create and sell DIY paper craft kits or offer online tutorials on how to create unique paper figures.
2. Unique Papercraft Designs - There is a disruptive innovation opportunity for businesses to collaborate with artists and designers to create unique and unconventional papercraft designs that cater to niche markets.
3. Printable Papercraft Templates - The ability to print and assemble papercraft templates opens up opportunities for businesses to create and sell customizable templates that cater to individual preferences and needs.
Industry Implications
1. Craft Supplies - The craft supplies industry can leverage this trend by offering specialized paper types, cutting tools, and adhesives for papercraft enthusiasts.
2. Art and Design - The art and design industry can explore partnerships with papercraft artists to offer unique and exclusive papercraft designs in galleries, exhibitions, and online marketplaces.
3. Educational Resources - The educational resources industry can develop online courses, workshops, and instructional materials to teach people how to create intricate papercraft designs and expand their skills.