Thoki Yenn

Thoki Yenn, born Thorkild Søndergaard Jensen on January 13, 1919, in Randers, Denmark, was a multifaceted artist known for his contributions to both the fields of origami and magic. He initially pursued a career in film and animation in the 1950s before transitioning to paper folding, where he made a significant impact.

Yenn is best known for his innovative origami designs, including the "Umulius Rectangulum" (also known as magic rings) and the "DNA" model, which blend geometric precision with representational art. His works are celebrated for their complexity and elegance, often challenging the conventional boundaries of origami. Yenn's contributions to the art form were not limited to design; he also wrote extensively on origami and shared his knowledge through lectures and workshops.

In addition to origami, Yenn was an accomplished magician, performing and creating illusions that captivated audiences. His dual expertise in magic and origami allowed him to create whimsical, transformative pieces that blurred the lines between art and illusion.

Yenn's legacy continues to influence modern origami artists and enthusiasts. His designs and theories remain a source of inspiration and study, showcasing the endless possibilities of paper folding. Thoki Yenn passed away on February 22, 2004, leaving behind a rich legacy in both the origami and magic communities.

For more detailed information about Thoki Yenn's life and work, you can visit sources like David Mitchell's Origami Heaven and Erik Demaine's website, which archive and celebrate his contributions.

Portrait image by BOS.

Copyright Policy, dictated by his son:

As Thoki Yenn’s son, I am happy for my father’s work to continue to be taught and shared within the international origami community.

As there are an increasing number of enquiries regarding the use of Thoki Yenn’s models, this policy clarifies how his work may be used.

Thoki Yenn’s models may be taught freely, without prior permission or payment, including in paid classes, workshops and online tutorials. Thoki Yenn must always be clearly credited by name as the designer.

Any commercial reproduction, publication, sale, licensing or other commercial exploitation of a Thoki Yenn model or design requires prior written approval from the copyright owner. This applies whether the use is in print, digital or online form.

Commercial permission may involve a licensing fee, royalty or other agreed fee, or may be granted without charge, as agreed with the copyright owner.

Permission to teach a model does not grant permission to reproduce, publish, distribute, sell, license or otherwise commercially exploit the model or design.

Fundraising and charitable activities involving the sale or commercial distribution of products featuring a Thoki Yenn design also require prior written approval.

This policy applies only to new publications and new uses from 1 September 2026 and onwards.
It does not apply retroactively and does not affect material that has already been published, distributed or made available, including existing books, publications, catalogues, websites, PDFs, digital media or online content, or permissions previously granted for such material.

Thank you for helping to preserve Thoki Yenn’s work and for keeping his designs alive through teaching and sharing within the international origami community.

You are welcome to contact me with any questions concerning Thoki Yenn and his origami work.

Thomas Feiring Søndergaard
Son of Thoki Yenn
Copyright Owner
Aarhus, Denmark
1 September 2026

Contact: tho22mas@gmail.com