Paper crafts came to life in the art studio as second and third graders watched an anime masterpiece and munched on buttered popcorn. The students, invited by the National Art Honor Society (NAHS), joined Origami Night to shape handiwork, savor snacks, and screen a classic anime. 

The latest Origami Night had a theme to come with: the movie My Neighbor Totoro, a popular Studio Ghibli film. Participants even crafted origami inspired by the characters of the film. “The purpose of the event, for kids, is to enjoy the night while incorporating art with the event. It’s a really chill event for children to have fun and fold origami while watching a movie,” said Niha Banerjee, sophomore and officer of NAHS. 

Hushed chatter and coziness filled the art studio throughout the evening. “[I loved] watching the movie and eating snacks. When the black dust [character in the movie[ came out and the floor turned all black was my favorite part. Mei seeing Totoro was also fun, too,” said Ella Lee in second grade.

As the credits rolled and the last kernels popped, participants gathered their crafts of the day. Young artists left the studio with endearing memories of origami and film with friends and the NAHS members who helped run the event.