Project Description

To illustrate traditional Chinese myths, legends and fables a combination of traditional and contemporary styles.

Intentions

I am fascinated by traditional art and design. They have a strong symbolism, a visual presence and in most cases, deeper meanings. I am particularly intrigued by the art and design of my own background – the Chinese culture. From what I’ve seen, growing up in the Chinese-Australian community, traditional Chinese design is rich, striking and beautiful. Their crockery, their paintings, their medical packaging are things I’m surrounded by in my home, but know very little about them.
My parents migrated here during the 1960s from China and Malaysia. I was born in Sydney, Australia and have lived here my entire life. I live in a country where we all have an opportunity to embrace and live among a diverse array of cultures. Unfortunately, I have never really embraced my own background in Chinese culture. Living in an area, where the Chinese community is quite prominent, I am not completely absent of my background, I continue practice traditional customs, such as celebrating the Chinese New Year. However, I still sense a void in my knowledge. The Chinese culture is rich and intriguing and is part of my identity and I fear that I have taken this for granted. My motivation for the project would be to gain a greater appreciation of my own background.

Research Methods

The research for this has consisted of predominantly literary research and informal discussions.

Contextual Field

Idea generation

• To gain a greater appreciation of my background – the Chinese culture.
• To gain the interest of others in Chinese culture.
• To bring traditional Chinese culture into a contemporary context.

Image creation

• Chinese graphic styles – traditional and contemporary.
• Brush paintings, political posters, Chinese typography etc.

Word interpretation

• Chinese legends, myths, folk tales, fables etc.

Media realisation

• Bounded book

Communication / Culture / Society

• Inform and entertain mainly the Chinese-Australian youths and Australians of other backgrounds.

Industry

• To bring an insight into traditional design and cross-culture design.

Keywords