TUPIPEL

TUPIPEL

If the word sounds new to the reader it is because it is in fact, new. Coined from Tagalog words, TUPI (fold) and PAPEL (paper), it is simply and literally referring to the act of folding a piece of paper.

Unlike ORIGAMI, the Japanese art of paper-folding, TUPIPEL is not strictly a genuine form of art. It interestingly evolved as a therapeutic hobby when I first used it as an easy substitute for cigarette and something to hold on during the period of withdrawal when I finally quit the habit after having been smoking four packs (80 sticks) daily for about twenty years. Almost as addicting as cigarette smoking I was hooked to it and the results were artistic creations that attracted some art lovers. More than a work of art, however, TUPIPEL serves many useful purposes.

It serves as a good companion during moments of solitude and loneliness. As such it is more comfortable than playing solitaire; a very effective cheerer in time of boredom, an instrument for expressing different emotions; a security blanket during moments of fear and apprehension. As a toy it could be more interesting, more enjoyable if not more challenging as the more expensive and more sophisticated electronically controlled ones. It is safer too. As decorative pieces there are endless possible forms and shapes.

The unique artistic results of TUPIPEL are difficult to duplicate so that each finish item has its own unique characteristics and “personality” that more often reflects that of the TUPIPERO or TUPIPERA.

Yes, TUPIPEL is something new, something good, something useful and something also for you, whoever you are and whatever you are doing. Indulging in it is like being in constant period of honeymoon. Like in honeymoon a lot of common sense is needed plus a good sense of humor and some amount of resourcefulness to enjoy it and for it to be fruitful. The beginning, like during honeymoon is a period of adjustment and interesting discoveries, both pleasant and unpleasant. One has to do a lot of stretching, of pressing, of creasing and careful caressing most of the time while folding and unfolding in every possible directions. All the while, just like during honeymoon, there is a need for utmost care and tenderness in order not to beak it. Even real honeymoons are sometimes spoiled and broken for the simple lack of tender loving care.

There can also be period of boredom at times but boredom that also challenges the wisdom of the TUPIPERO very similar to the challenges encountered by honeymooners that eventually matures the mates. Then the triumphant moment of compatibility when the folder and the paper being folded becomes blissfully adjusted. From then on you are totally married to the hobby and there is no stopping. Every new creation you make shall give birth to more artistic creations unless, of course, you are artistically impotent or infertile.

Give a crying child a fluffing bird and see how his face brightens; offer a Japanese young lady with a paper crane and she will fall in love with you. Create a paper trash disposal container during picnics and notice how other picnickers are amazed at your creativity. Propose your love by offering paper roses or make your prayer request by offering paper rosary to a nun or a catechist.

As therapeutic tool it is more useful. It helps revitalize fingers weakened by arthritis and paralysis. It gives way to one’s destructive tendencies and sadistic leanings by merely breaking it, as it also becomes a vehicle of one’s “hot” temper or “burning” anger by actually burning it. For children it is an endless source of toys. Try TUPIPEL. It could change your entire life style.

I won’t forget what once happened inside an airplane up in the air. A young girl passed-by my side. I gave her a paper tulip. She quickly called her brother whom I offered a paper frog. It was seen by other children and one by one they approached me. I, in turn offered them different folded items. It didn’t take so long when I found myself surrounded by the mothers of the children who were curious why their children were all coming to me. At this point the stewardess commented: “Be careful so that the airplane don’t tilt on that side”. I gave her a small garland of paper 'sampagitas'.