Hat Eleven - Paper
The art teacher attempting to influence other subjects wasn't anything new. The art teacher succeeding was rare. Those successes always turned out to be fun, and this time the subject was history.
Subaru's class had filed in to find colorful reams and rolls of paper, papyrus, and synthetic equivalents spread around the room.
"The three most important things in the art of origami are: one, starting with the proper shape; two, lining up the folds; and three, well-flattened creases."
The class started by learning the folding terms, and practicing with very simple shapes using holograms. Once both teachers were satisfied, the students were given squares and rectangles, and taught to make a fan and a hat. Then came optional patterns for a bird and fish, a few other shapes, then finally the object of the lesson.
"This is known as the International Peace Crane, and we will be making as many as possible to hang in the lobby of the airport." She told them the story behind its importance while the class the spent the rest of the period folding.
When the class ended, several students lingered to finish whatever step they were on. The next class filtered in, conversations abruptly redirecting in curiosity to the unusual paper creations that wandered out, being held or adorning heads. Trades had resulted in hats sporting birds, flowers, butterflies, fish, and frogs that were taped, glued, or stapled to them. One student had used a sewing kit to thread paper balloons and stars around the brim of her hat.
Subaru's plain white hat was the only one with no decorations, as he'd given all his practice pieces away. The homework was probably the easiest he'd ever received: ten cranes by the end of the week, bonus points for extra. He adjusted the hat as he walked to his next class, thinking that more of the faculty should listen to the art teacher.
For my elder sister, who taught me how to fold the crane, and shared the story behind the International Day of Peace. Next hat: Aug 11th
Rockman characters belong to Capcom. The story referenced is the tale Sadako and the Thousand Paper Cranes.