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The Curious Robotic World of Yasui Tomohiro

  • All of these models were made from everyday objects. (© Kondō Yūki)

    All of these models were made from everyday objects. (© Kondō Yūki)

  • Each of Yasui’s paper robots has a name and background story. (© Kondō Yūki)

    Each of Yasui’s paper robots has a name and background story. (© Kondō Yūki)

  • The unique wire hinges give the figurines their flexibility. Amazingly, the artist invented this technique as an elementary school student. (© Kondō Yūki)

    The unique wire hinges give the figurines their flexibility. Amazingly, the artist invented this technique as an elementary school student. (© Kondō Yūki)

  • Yasui has used some of these tools for decades. (© Kondō Yūki)

    Yasui has used some of these tools for decades. (© Kondō Yūki)

  • Yasui made the robot on the left when he was 11 and the one on the right when he was 12. The spirit of the older robot was transferred to the newer one, he says. (© Kondō Yūki)

    Yasui made the robot on the left when he was 11 and the one on the right when he was 12. The spirit of the older robot was transferred to the newer one, he says. (© Kondō Yūki)

  • The paper robots are part of a detailed imaginary world. (© Yasui Tomohiro)

    The paper robots are part of a detailed imaginary world. (© Yasui Tomohiro)

  • Both Madroneck (left) and Birdman have distinct personalities. (© Yasui Tomohiro)

    Both Madroneck (left) and Birdman have distinct personalities. (© Yasui Tomohiro)

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