From the Chinese paper kites to early flying machine models by Aristotle and Da Vinci, humans have long been fascinated with the idea of soaring through the sky. The new exhibition at the TU Delft Library ‘Paper Aero Planes: Off to a flying start in the New Year!’ explores this fanciful history of flight.
Those interested in learning about the first crafters can study the history of the paper airplane section. Paper models were excellent tools for understanding the basic principles of flight and were used as late as the 20th century. Paper airplane models likely helped with the design of the B-2 Stealth Bomber.
If you are more interested in a hands-on approach you will want to view the folding, flying, aerodynamic origami displays. You can pick up some paper from a recycle bin and follow the step-by-step instructions. There are basic models, detailed origami and even models of modern aircraft.
Individuals with a more competitive streak will be interested in the paper airplane competitions and competition records sections. The first international competition was launched with an ad in the New York Times in 1966. It garnered over 11,000 entries and promised ‘Leonardo statuette’ awards for the top designs in each category. Former TU Delft architecture student Harry Hoek is the curator of the exhibit. Hoek has curated several exhibitions, including one at the TU School of Architecture about Gerrit Rietveld’s furniture designs. Both the Rietveld and current Paper Airplane exhibitions were previously displayed at De Biblotheek Rotterdam.
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