Robert Lang’s Origami Legacy Continues After Tragedy

Since the age of six, Robert Lang has dedicated his life to the art of folding paper. Now, at 65, Lang is recognized worldwide as a master of origami with over 800 designs to his name. When asked about his reputation as an origami ‘rock star,’ Lang acknowledged, “Yeah, I’ve gotten used to it.”

Although origami originated in Japan more than three centuries ago, Lang played a pivotal role in revitalizing this art form in the 1990s. He combined his background as a physicist designing lasers for NASA with his passion for origami to pursue a full-time career in this field. By 2007, he shared some of his most cherished patterns in a CBS ‘Sunday Morning’ feature at his home in California.

Lang describes origami as magical, emphasizing the satisfaction in creating something complex and seemingly impossible. However, this magic faced a significant challenge at the start of 2025 when the Eaton Fires devastated his home and studio in Altadena, California. As he recorded the studio engulfed in flames, Lang realized his life would change drastically.

Among the losses were hundreds of intricate pieces, including many of his favorite insects and arthropods. Remarkably, the only finished work he saved was an origami cuckoo clock from 1987. Reflecting on the loss, Lang said, “Everything I had envisioned for the next stage of my life is going to be a completely different plan.” Notably lost were his prized koi, which had been exhibited in 15 museums over five years.

The paper used in the koi creation was handmade by Richard Alexander and Michael LaFosse of Origamido Studios, a process comparable to having a violin made by Antonio Stradivari. Understanding the loss, Alexander and LaFosse were quick to offer support, with Alexander stating, “It is a family, so we were very glad to help.” The pair made new paper incorporating ashes from Lang’s studio, specifically from where the koi were stored.

At his temporary residence in Altadena, Lang started creating a new installation titled “Vertical Pond III,” using the new paper. This exhibit made its debut at Descanso Gardens, near Altadena. Lang expressed joy at seeing his creations come to life again, saying, “I love to see them swimming around.” The installation represented a rebirth of his artistic vision.

“Vertical Pond III: From the Ashes” gained recognition at Descanso Gardens and will be on display at the Mingei International Museum in San Diego until November. Despite the setbacks, Lang and his wife, Diane, are finding beauty amid the challenges they face. Lang remains committed to origami, finding it intellectually stimulating and rewarding.

For more information, you can explore Robert J. Lang’s work in his origami exhibitions, or visit Origamido Studios in Haverhill, Massachusetts, and Descanso Gardens in La Cañada Flintridge, California.