Since one o'clock. [Oh, wait, that's my answer at festivals.] Actually, I discovered origami as an art form probably around 1983.

That's two questions. The second will cost you extra. (1) Very well, thank you. (2) Practice, practice, and of course, practice.

Hey! That's two questions . . . oh, I give up. Yes, I do parties. Go to my Clients & Venues page to see that I work in a wide variety of venues and settings. Regarding cost: I charge thousands of . . . pennies. Here is general cost info: PRICE LIST. If you are serious about the possibility of a booking, please make certain you contact me (michaelroy@earthlink.net) about the details and "bottom line". I want to make sure there is no misunderstanding about the cost. Also, I do try to accommodate the limits of budget as much as possible. Corporations, for instance, are not going to want to pay the same paltry fee as, say a nonprofit or small arts festival.

Yes. However, many of the origami designs I fold were developed by other origami artists. Some are the classics from Japan -- origami designs which have been passed down from generation to generation -- and a few are designed by me. As a folder, I am similar to a musician who interprets the composer's (origami designer's) composition. I give an artistic interpretation to the design and sometimes add my own embellishments. Go to my LINKS page to link to some of the composers' sites. There are also many other links of interest there.

Yes. If you are interested in hosting a hands-on origami class at your college, school, recreation center, church, party, day- camp, summer camp, retreat, etc. just contact me michaelroy@earthlink.net (hey, bring Darrell along, he and I can trade origami moves, play Dueling Creases, see who can take the most paper cuts, have a race and see who's creased lightning. . . ).

Yes, depending on the setting and your desires and budget. I can teach some basics (or advanced if needed). Between myself, the MicRo Gallery, and Origami Activitiy Stations I have a number of interactive attractions. I have a guessing game where guests look at unfolded pieces and are challenged to match crease patterns to models on the MicRo Gallery. I have origami "action figures" with which guests can "play". There's a tangram. And, of course, there are step by step instructions and paper supplies (and assistance from me if needed) for a simple design which even mere mortals can successfully make into an origami sculpture. All this while I casually walk around entertaining folks with dazzling finger work, folding intricate and exquisite origami and handing out these beautiful pieces of art as keepsakes to thrilled guests. [OK, so I have a bit of an ego. Hey, I'm an artist, what can I say!]

Actually that's not a frequently asked question, but I know it can be a concern for those who want an emphasis on the "keepsake" feature of my presentations, so here are some numbers: I typically fold 20 - 25 origami art pieces per hour (similar to the pace of a caricature artist). However, if you desire more let me know and I can be prepared to produce up to 30 per hour, (at the speed of the typical balloon artist) on average, one every 2 minutes or so. For situations where you need even more, we have a couple of options: 1. I can fold mostly simpler designs and prepare the more intricate pieces ahead of time and/or bring an assistant to increase volume output. Or 2. I provide one of "Michael Roy's Bundles of Fun", teaming up with another artist/entertainer to provide a variety of artistic mementos. For details check out our StrollingEntertainment.com site. Of course, either of those options will necessitate a bigger budget than just hiring me solo.

NOTE: Not every guest desires a keepsake, but they all appreciate the Wow factor of Folder Fantastique, Michael Roy. With his expertise in the oriental art of origami developed through thousands of hours over many years of study, training, and practice; and embellished with theatrical, magical, and circus arts his magical and manic manipulations transform the square to extraordinaire. Michael Roy brings a fine and fun flair for focus on flying phalanges, folding flat into fantastic, creating exquisite, intricate, art pieces right before the eyes of your astonished guests.

OK, that was three questions, now you're really getting irritating. Yes I am, yes I do, and no I don't. Juggling can be part of a package deal when you hire me as a strolling origami entertainer for an engagement. But if you want a juggler sans the origami (sans, for you who had your head on the desk that day, means without), I cannot accommodate you. At this time I am not doing stage work, only interactive, strolling, and close-up entertainment with an emphasis on the wonder and amazement of origami. If you really need a stand up presention for a modest sized group, consider one of my origami workshops which does include a brief stand up presention.

Poof! Your auntie is now one of Michael Roy's exquisite origami sculptures. (OK, I know, it's like my sons tell me, "Dad, your publicity says you're a quick wit; it does not say your wit is funny.") Anyway to answer your question: sure, you can order as many of Michael Roy's origami art pieces as you want. They make great special and unique hand-crafted gifts for all your friends, family, fellow employees, clients, boss, enemies, the mailman . . . you have the idea. Keep in mind that if you are ordering bulk for a wedding or special event I do need some warning (i.e. order early!). Go to my Repertoire page, make your choices and send me an Email with your order. Phssssssst, if you happen to show up at one of my appearances I make all of the models on the spot and give away many of these models (one per person), no cost to you. So, you can get your auntie a thrilling piece of art for FREE! Or better yet, bring her to the event too and you both can witness the production of an origami sculpture right before your eyes and you each can take one home to cherish for years to come!

I live in Kent, Ohio. I maintain a day job as a graphic designer and illustrator so I don't currently tour extensively. Most of my engagements are within a three hour drive from Kent, Ohio (e.g. Cleveland, OH, Akron, OH, Canton, OH, Youngstown, OH, Toledo, OH, Columbus, OH, Pittsburgh, PA, Erie, PA, Northern WV and surrounding regions). If you have an event at a farther distance I am still open to the possibility. And don't let my day job interfere with your plans. As long as you book far enough in advance I make arrangements accordingly. Just give me a call 330-678-3362 or email me michaelroy@earthlink.net.

Yes. I book my own engagements. Yes. I use agencies. Yes. That was two questions. Yes. I gave you one answer. I am on the roster of a number of Entertainment, Artist, and Event Planners, so I am occasionally booked through their services. Booking a Michael Roy's Cirque du Papier engagement is straight forward and easy. Just give me a call 330-678-3362 or email me michaelroy@earthlink.net. Or, if you already have an events planner, agency, or producer that you regularly use, then just have them get in touch with me and we'll hammer out the details of making that next event of yours the best ever (since I will be there). You won't be disappointed. And if you are? Hey, it's only entertainment! Or, better yet, consider it "Performance Art" (you know, that stuff where the performance artist smears peanut butter all over his body and then recites the Iliad in hip hop while standing on his head . . . although, hmm maybe . . . not a bad idea, add a little paper folding . . . .

Typically, 3 to 6 months or more is a safe amount of time. However, occasionally I still have open dates within a shorter time span. So call or write me anytime. You can find out my current schedule by going to my SCHEDULE page.

I am happy you asked [boy was that a spontaneous out-a-the-blue question!]. Yes, it is easy to accommodate my technical needs. When you book a Michael Roy's Folding Paper Art engagement you will receive a contract with an attached page of technical specifics which, in essence, simply asks for approximately 10 feet by 10 feet of well lighted space and approximately 60 minutes for load-in and set-up and 60 minutes for tear-down and load-out. This will accommodate the MicRo Gallery, Origami & Puzzle Activity Stations, and room for my interaction with guests. In other words I am more or less "self-contained". In some settings I do not use the MicRo Gallery at all (i.e. some private parties, where I am strolling, doing table to table, and the like). You can download a sample of my tech RIDER from my Promo & Photos page.

Yes, I am primarily a close-up and strolling entertainer. Origami lends itself nicely to the intimacy of a "right before your eyes!" kind of performance. There is something to be said for getting to view the performance from the "front row" and getting to interact directly with the artist, and see "how he does it" (though, like watching a close-up magician, you will still be befuddled). The intricacies of the art are not easily appreciated in a stage setting. However, that being said, after years of preparation, I now offer a stand-up/workshop presentation for modest sized gatherings. The program begins with a 30 minute fun and funny presentation of the magic of the folded square, and morphs into a 60 minute origami workshop. Total program time is 90 minutes. Abbreviated versions are also available. Contact me for details.

First of all, that is not a frequently asked question, but since you asked, I have been awarded many times . . . OK, maybe three or four . . . OK, I can think of one . . . maybe two . . . Oh! Wait, wait! It's coming back to me. Just a few years ago (1998 to be exact) I received a letter from Who's Who Among American High School Students "Honoring Tomorrow's Leaders Today" . Here's how the letter started:

Dear Michael,
Congratulations. I am pleased to inform you that because of your fine academic achievements, you have been nominated for honorary award recognition and to have your biography published in WHO'S WHO AMONG AMERICA'S HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS, 1997-98.

And it went on from there. Of course I didn't take them up on the honor seeing as how I am a rather modest and humble boy from Eastern Kentucky. OK, so it was a low point in my career and I didn't have the funds, and besides it came a few years after the fact (I graduated Class of "73 from Johnson Central High School in Paintsville, Kentucky, 56th in grade standing). Hey, wait, I did win the Johnson Central High School Talent Show in 1973 and second place in '71. And I did win first place in a talent show in Escondido, California at a shopping center (it came with a $250 prize, which meant my landlord was paid on time that month). All seriousness aside though, I also received an award for my graphic work: Indiana Bankers Association & The American Bankers Association Marketing Network Mega Conference - Maxi Award for Best Outdoor Advertisement (which, I think, should get the award for the longest award title). And I did win a scholarship to the CIA, otherwise know as the Cleveland Institute of Art. However, due to life circumstances at the time I did not take them up on it. Hey, I think that does it. I can't remember any other awards off the top of my head, but if I do, you'll be the first to know.

I use a wide variety of papers in many colors. My decision of which to use is based on finding the most appropriate paper type for each model that creates the best end result. The criteria includes such factors as: the simpler the design the thicker the paper can be in ratio to the width and height. I use traditional, commercially available origami paper imported from Japan, which has color and/or a pattern printed on one side and is white on the other. I use memory-book (scrapbooking) paper which is similar, but is usually larger (12" X 12") and a heavier weight. I use large art paper (e.g. watercolor, pastels). I find that even photocopy/inkjet paper works very well for certain models. I also use a variety of paper odds-and-ends randomly discovered here and there and especially at an area discount paper store (Hollos Paper Craft in Brunswick, Ohio). And of course, in the spirit of "going green", I have always cut squares, from my old Rand McNally Road Atlases (from my days of touring the world) which make some really cool designs. I also use colorful printed ads, otherwise known as "junk mail". I even rescue papers from my graphic design day job before they hit the recycle bins, and old blue prints from a neighboring architecture firm. In other words, it is the most fuel and resource efficient "recycled" paper. It is simply reused paper (recycling old school). The characteristic that all these papers have in common is they are all able to withstand repeated folding and unfolding without tearing (up to a point).

I have not found any one to be most popular. A person's choice seem to depend on the subject matter and/or the individual's personal preference of aesthetic. In other words, if they are really into elephants then they will ask for an elephant. If they are really into buzzards then they will ask for a buzzard. If they are really into ostriches then they will ask . . . well you have the idea. Sometimes someone will request something and then a different model will capture their attention (and apparently, their affection) and they will change the request.

Well, currently I would have to say the humming bird (a Michael LaFosse design). It is a challenge and fun to fold, with beautiful results. And besides, I'm really into humming birds (see above answer). I don't think the image I have on this site does the model justice. You have to be there. I usually make it approximately life size, which of course, adds to the challenge. Fingers need to be nimble and acrobatic. I call folding designs of this complexity and diminutive size: "cirque du papier".

OK, my turn. You gave me one question and I will give you two answers. (1) The one I have not practiced lately is usually the most difficult. (2) The most complex design I fold is the snowball. It has the most creases and is extremely complex. Yet, I can fold it so fast it's like creased lightning. And if you unfold two of the models you will see that the crease pattern is much like snowflakes, no two are alike. A wonderful mystery to behold!

I am glad you asked. Yes, my work fits theme events very well. Since I have a diverse portfolio of origami art, I can execute many folding pieces appropriate to your party's theme. Check out my THEME EVENTS page for more details. Then give us a call or send an email and I will set up a plan to provide pertinent paper party "pets" and favors fitting your fun, festive event! Even when you don't have a specific theme for your special occasion, keep in mind that due to the "magical" and colorful character of origami, it's already a natural fit where truly fun entertainment is the only theme you need.

Let me answer that with some thoughts and observations on behalf of variety artists everywhere, and with an explanation of my own policy and practice.
Policy & Practice: I do offer discount prices, as much as possible, for non-profits and charity events, to fit into their budget constraints. I also usually pick one or two good causes per year to donate my time and expertise to, typically chosen because of some personal connection. Generally I do not do any gigs for the exposure. I have not found it to be a cost effective way of marketing my art and entertainment. (And as one actor friend of mine would say, "You know, people die of exposure.")
Thoughts & Observations: Entertainers and artists, by the nature of their profession, are asked to donate time and expertise to a large number of good causes and charities throughout the year. When you see the Bonos of the world doing the pro bonos and the good deeds, they should be applauded for their efforts. However, keep in mind that in the entertainment and arts professions, the rock stars, movie actors, and other media celebrities are only the tip of the iceberg of talented working professionals. Most of the folks in "show business", though quite gifted, are, none the less, the underwater part of that giant berg and would be seriously "under water", economically if they gave away their work to everyone who asked them throughout the year. A variety artist sells time, and expertise as a live entertainer without the benefits of a mega salary or contract from recordings or appearing on TV, in movies, etc. And when asked to donate an appearance at a fund raiser, it may be (and usually is) during a prime time to create income for their household. Let's put it another way. If you asked a "mom & pop" restaurant to donate their facility for a good cause, fund raiser during Mothers Day luncheon hours, they would probably give you some pretty funny looks. Having said that, I also know that countless times "creative types" as well as "just folks" will give of their time and resources to help out their fellow humans without any applause or even notice, and often not from a great abundance.

 

In conclusion: Please feel free to invite me if you have a "good cause" event coming up. I am always happy to give a discount and perhaps, in some cases (per above), do your engagement pro bono. I may not be Bono, but I am a pro. (Sorry, I just couldn't help myself.) Just keep in mind that even on that sort of gig my Foldsmobile still needs to be fed (i.e. currently $.50 per mile round trip).
If this doesn't answer your frequently asked question, or your are confused by my long and rambling answer, or you just have other, infrequently asked questions, or you're just lonely please feel free to contact me anytime.

You never give up on sneaking that extra question in do you? You're good! I didn't acquire an interest in origami from seeing anything in God's heaven (as far as I know). But I do think He (i.e. God) finds origami to be really cool, even cooler than the internet. I believe my interest in the art form stems from my temperament and gifts. I have always enjoyed puzzles, visual art, working with my hands, and novelty - especially 3D stuff - and I think origami blends all of these beautifully. How I learned was primarily from books and instruction sheets. I did learn one design from a waitress at a Chinese buffet and a couple of designs from video, but the vast bulk of my learning has been, and continues to be, from books.