Teoh Gim Khoon (0361563)
Bachelor of Design (Hons) in Creative Media
Intercultural Design - Final Compilation
Link to others tasks
Japan Trip Reflection -
INSTRUCTIONS
LECTURES
Project 1: Research Proposal
Theme: Cultural Sensitivity in Design
Instruction: Study a cultural phenomenon that is perceived as 'sensitive' and convey this cultural aspect within a presentable interpretation and adaptation that raises awareness from the viewers.
Output: Produce some preliminary ideas for visually express interpretation using design language.
Topis research & Brainstorming
Our group conducted research on the theme and discovered topics related to Wabi-Sabi and Kimono Patterns and Symbols.
Our group conducted research on the theme and discovered topics related to Wabi-Sabi and Kimono Patterns and Symbols.
Based on our research findings, our team opted to focus on the topic of Wabi-Sabi. We then allocated specific tasks to each team member, allowing them to conduct individual research and generate unique ideas for the final output related to our chosen topic.
Research and Ideation for Wabi-Sabi topic
Proposal Presentation Slide
Proposal Presentation Video
Project 2: Data Collection
Following our research direction, our group began planning various spots and locations to visit during our field study in Japan for the purpose of data collection. We are eagerly anticipating our first visit to Japan, filled with curiosity and excitement, as we cannot wait to explore all it has to offer.
During our visit to Japan, we managed to visit most of the planned locations, although a few required prior appointments, limiting our access to information for data collection. Fortunately, we were still able to explore other sites and gather a wealth of valuable information. We are deeply grateful to those who generously shared their time, expertise, and insights with us, participating in interviews and providing explanations.
Happiness, though fleeting, accompanied us throughout our study trip. Following our return, we began the task of assembling all the data and information collected during our observation study.
During the research trip, we successfully gathered image sources depicting various elements related to our topic, including wabi-sabi fabric and textures, materials used in kintsugi art, patterns found in kimono fabric, and examples of Shibori art. These visuals serve as crucial evidence to support our research findings.
Observation Studies
Data Collection Presentation Slide
Project 3: Final Prototype Design
We convened an online meeting to brainstorm ideas and kickstart the initial phase of our project by creating some preliminary design sketches.
Our initial concept involves creating a wabi-sabi dress design adorned with kimono patterns embossed onto the fabric. We experimented with various dress designs and incorporated cherry blossom sketches into our ideas.
Following a consultation with Miss Maria, she recommended that we explore the idea of designing a book cover to enhance the realism of the dress fabric.
Initially, we attempted to incorporate the dress shape directly onto the book cover. However, upon closer examination, we noticed that the silhouette resembled a vase, aligning with the wabi-sabi aesthetic. Consequently, we decided to enhance this resemblance by adding Sakura branches atop the design, transforming it into a vase-inspired book cover page.
Additionally, we decided to integrate the kintsugi element into our design, aiming to incorporate it seamlessly with the dress fabric.
Throughout the design process, we persisted in exploring various design iterations for both the book cover and the kintsugi line art. Our objective was to imbue these elements with deeper meaning and symbolism that accurately represented the essence of wabi-sabi philosophy.
Fabric texture wise we did try out a lot of different kind of texture emboss for the Sakura pattern but end up it does not went with what we expect. The pattern still look flat and out of place.
Despite our efforts to experiment with various fabric textures for the Sakura pattern, we encountered challenges. The textures we applied didn't align with our vision, resulting in a flat and disjointed appearance.
Returning our focus to the dress fabric texture, we made several attempts to refine the design. We experimented with techniques such as overlaying stock images, creating hand-drawn textures, and applying embossing effects with different settings.
Final Book Cover Design
Book Cover Mockup
Flipbook Mockup
Final Project Presentation Slide
Feedback
Week 3
Miss. Anis suggest us to combine kimono with wabi-sabi for our final topic
Week 5
Miss. Maria provide us some possible final prototype that we can consider to think off:
- Wabi-sabi inspired photoshoot
- A cover page of a book
She also provide us some suggestion towards our first design:
- Focus on texture (if continue with our sketches)
- Explain sakura idea into visual
- Our idea now too predictable, make it unique and meaningful
Week 6
Miss. Maria:
The book cover's design concept is commendable; she appreciates the incorporation of the Sakura story, symbolizing wabi-sabi principles. However, regarding texture, she recommends further exploration to enhance realism and evoke the tactile sensation of fabric. She suggests experimenting with embossing techniques to achieve this effect.
Week 7
- Can consider to add in texture from prints that reassemble Japanese pattern Sakura
- Can extract patterns from kimono, and apply to illustration
- Remember that the presentation is to focus on the final outcome and how we present, also remember to relate culture sensitivity to what we are doing
Reflection
Experience
During this project, I gained valuable insights into Japan's cultural sensitivity regarding design through a study trip to Japan for research. My team members and I deepened our understanding of concepts like wabi-sabi and kintsugi by visiting related workshops and interviewing owners to gather more information on our topic. Exploring the fusion of kimono with wabi-sabi provided us with an opportunity to delve deeper into Japanese culture. Throughout the study trip, I had numerous opportunities to interact with and experience other cultures as well, broadening my perspective significantly.
Observation
During our study trip to Japan, I observed a profound emphasis on cultural sensitivity in design. This was evident in various aspects, from the intricate details of traditional crafts to the minimalist aesthetics prevalent in contemporary design. The concept of wabi-sabi, celebrating imperfection and simplicity, was prominently observed in workshops and design practices, highlighting a harmonious relationship with nature. Additionally, the exploration of kintsugi, the art of repairing broken pottery with gold or silver lacquer, showcased Japan's philosophy of embracing flaws and transforming them into beauty. Trying on a kimono infused with wabi-sabi aesthetics provided a tangible experience of traditional attire's cultural significance.
Findings
Through workshops and interviews with artisans, we gained insights into how wabi-sabi influences design practices, emphasizing simplicity and an appreciation for imperfection. Our exploration of kintsugi informed us about the Japanese approach to craftsmanship, emphasizing resilience and adaptability in design. The hands-on experience of trying on a kimono with wabi-sabi elements deepened our understanding of traditional attire and its integration with broader design principles. Overall, the project enriched our understanding of Japan's cultural heritage and its impact on design philosophy, broadening our perspective on cross-cultural design principles.
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