BeyondBooks: ‘I love turning paper into something beautiful’

A student of Class VIII at Apeejay School, Kharghar, has a keen interest in art and craft, particularly Origami and Quilling. The 14-year-old recently won first prize in Origami and second prize in Quilling, showcasing her creativity and attention to detail. For her, the joy lies in transforming simple sheets of paper into beautiful creations.

“What I enjoy most is turning a simple sheet of paper into something beautiful. Both activities require patience and imagination, which makes them even more enjoyable,” Shiza Abbasi shared in a candid interview, among other things.

How did you feel when you found out that you had won a prize in the competition?

I felt extremely happy and proud when I found out that I had won! Winning 1st prize in Origami and 2nd prize in Quilling was a wonderful feeling. It made me realise that all my hard work had paid off and encouraged me to do even better.

What did you create for the competition, and how did you decide on the idea?

The topics were given to us on the spot, so I had to think of ideas that matched the themes. For Origami, I made jumping frogs, and for Quilling, I created a floral greeting card. I followed the instructions carefully and tried to make my creations as neat, colourful and attractive as possible.

What do you enjoy most about Origami and Quilling?

What I enjoy most is turning a simple sheet of paper into something beautiful. Origami is exciting because I can create different shapes just by folding paper, while Quilling allows me to make lovely designs using tiny rolled strips of paper. Both activities require patience and imagination, which makes them even more enjoyable.

How did you prepare for the competition, and how much time did you spend practising?

I prepared by practising different folds and designs, focusing on making my work neat and precise. I spent a few hours every day trying out new ideas and improving my skills before the competition. I also made sure to work patiently instead of rushing through things.

What was the most difficult part of creating your final piece?

The most challenging part was ensuring that every fold and each tiny paper strip was placed correctly. Even a small mistake could affect the overall appearance of the artwork. I had to stay focused and pay close attention to every detail.

Did your teachers or parents help or encourage you while you were preparing?

Yes, definitely! My parents always encourage me to participate in creative activities and try new things. My teachers also motivated me and guided me whenever I needed help. Their support gave me the confidence to give my best.

Which part of your Origami or Quilling creation are you most proud of, and why?

I am most proud of the little details in my creations and how neatly everything came together. I put a lot of time and care into each part, so seeing the finished artwork was really satisfying. Winning 1st prize in Origami and 2nd prize in Quilling made the experience even more special. It has inspired me to keep learning, experimenting and creating new artwork.