三月 20, 2024

Interculture Design / Project 1 - 3

Interculture Design

-2024/2/7 - 20242 /3/28

TAO YUZE (0366967)

Design Principles / Bachelor fo Design (Honours) in Creative Media

Team procces Project 1

Team Proccess Project 2

1.0 LECTURES

1.1 WEEK 1 — TASK 1 BRIEFING, CULTURE & DESIGN

TASK 1 BRIEFING:

Theme: "Cultural Sensitivity in Design"
Any culture can be chosen for this project, however, students going on the Osaka field trip have to pick Japan.
5–6 students per group, grouping will be decided by tutors on Week 2.
The preliminary ideas can be about anything.

CULTURE & DESIGN:

Definition of Visuals:

Visuals encompass everything observable, encompassing a broad spectrum that includes nature. However, it's important to note that while nature is part of visuals, it does not inherently embody culture unless imbued with specific meanings and representations.

Everything visually perceptible crafted by humans:

Distinctly pertains to human-made objects bearing visual forms.They serve functions, convey content, and fulfill communicative aims.

The Design System:

Design system

Research Process

Design Sensitivity:

Awareness of Cultural Sensitivity:

1. Symbolism & Imagery:

Different cultures attribute varied meanings to symbols and imagery.

Exercise caution to prevent misinterpretations and potential offense.

2. Color Consideration:

Colors hold cultural significance, with meanings varying across cultures.

Mindfully select colors to resonate with the target audience.

3. Typography & Language:

Choose fonts and text styles that align with cultural norms.

Account for linguistic variations and ensure accurate translations for broader audience reach.

Approaches to Address Cultural Sensitivity:

1. Inclusive Design:

Create designs that accommodate diverse cultural backgrounds and cater to varying needs and abilities.

2. User Research:

Conduct comprehensive user research, including ethnographic studies and testing across diverse groups, to understand cultural preferences and behaviors.

3. Localization:

Tailor designs to specific cultural contexts to enhance product/service relevance and acceptance.

4. Cultural Awareness Training:

Engage in training to deepen understanding of diverse perspectives and sensitivities.

RESEARCH PROCESS:

Ensure that your research aligns with every aspect of the Design System.Research Objective: Unify theory and practice to establish the rationale for your project.

1. Pre-Proposal Stage:

Secondary Research:

Gather data from published and existing sources.

For example, utilize resources like Wikipedia, websites, and YouTube.

Primary Research:

Create sketches of proposed artworks based on the secondary findings.

2. Post-Proposal Stage:

Primary Research:

Collect data firsthand.

For instance, conduct on-site observations, interviews, or surveys.

3. During Artwork Creation:

Document the process, including contributions from group members.

Why did we choose kanzashi to represent Japanese culture?

Kanzashi (簪) are traditional Japanese hair accessories once known as a form of protection from evil spirits, but over time, became not only a symbol of history and elegance, but also of today's fashion and artistic skills, ensuring its continued relevance in Japanese society. However, the use of kanzashi has begun to fade from people's lives, so we would like to highlight kanzashi as material for a cultural acculturation project, so that this traditional accessory does not become extinct and is recognized by more people.

Why are traditional Japanese accessories becoming a dying tradition, and how to bring awareness to this?

As fashion evolves, there's a shift towards more modern and Western styles, leading to a decreased interest in traditional Japanese accessories, such as kanzashi. Nowadays they are only worn during ceremonies or festivals and far removed from our daily lives. They have very traditional and intricate designs that don't match up with today's fashion trends (minimalistic and classy). It looks out of place and requires effort to wear it in today's fashion. Along with the decrease in interest of Kanzashi. The people who have the skills required to create these accessories are declining as their successors or other people who took an interest in this art prefer another skill that is well-known and globally needed in the world, and doesn’t involve much patience and attention to detail.

Why did we choose OSAKA, KYOTO AND NARA AS OUR AREA OF RESEARCH?

Exploring Osaka, Kyoto, and Nara provides an in-depth look into Japan's various characteristics such as historical significance, traditional art and crafts, natural beauty, modern innovation and more. By pointing out Osaka's modernity (Nightlife in Dotonbori with the neon billboards and signs), Kyoto's cultural legacy (The capital city in the past, Torii gates at Fushimi Inari Taisha and bamboo groves), and Nara's historical relevance (Deer and ancient temples have strong cultural significance at there). These data collections show the transition from traditional (Kyoto's cultural legacy and Nara's historical relevance) to modern times (Osaka's modernity), similar to the evolution from wearing traditional accessories such as kanzashi to modern accessories such as claw clips.

PROJECT 1 — PROPOSAL

Instructions:

Topic: "Cultural Sensitivity in Design"

Explore a cultural phenomenon or a specific subculture perceived as "sensitive".

Communicate this cultural aspect while maintaining factual accuracy.

The interpretation and representation should raise awareness among viewers.

Generate initial concepts for visually expressing your interpretation using design language.

Each concept should be accompanied by a brief rationale.

Submission (PPT in PDF format):

A 200-word explanation — Defining and interpreting the theme concerning the selected cultural elements.

A minimum of three preliminary concepts — supported by detailed sketches and individual rationales.

Include citations, visual references (e.g., images that inspired or influenced the concepts), and picture credits.

3.1 IDEATION

In the initial idea exploration, I proposed to choose Japanese folding screens as our theme. Because most of the group members think that we should do some physical work alone, not just the illustration we have learned.I think the screen is a good combination of the art of illustration that we are good at and the characteristics of physicality. We can create a culturally sensitive illustration as the pattern of the screen, and then use printing techniques to create it

In due course, we settled on the theme of Japanese fashion accessories. Attire and self-expression hold profound personal significance. Various facets of a culture, such as beauty ideals, social status, and taboos, can shape an individual's presentation. Additionally, accessories serve as more than mere adornments; they convey one's interests, convictions, and values.

Our concept involved merging traditional Japanese fashion accessories with distinct elements of Japanese culture for each initial idea.

Preliminary Idea #1: Japanese Fashion Accessories × History — Emily & Lizzie
Preliminary Idea #2: Japanese Fashion Accessories × Art — Tao Yuze & Velicia
Preliminary Idea #3: Japanese Fashion Accessories × Toys — Ying Ying & Aisya

RESEARCH

HISTORY N SENSITIVE

I need to explore the sensitivities in it before designing. Based on the teacher's feedback, we needed to find out the reason for the demise of traditional Japanese clothing and accessories

I decided to make the relationship between men and women my starting point. I consulted some articles:referenceI conducted some surveys on Japanese women's traditional clothing, and I found that from a historical perspective, Japanese women's clothing is a stereotyped symbolic female gender status. The status of Japanese women has always been low from a historical perspective, and the traditional clothing of Japanese women represents this low status.

The reduction in the use of traditional clothing for women in modern Japan is related to the advancement of women's status and feminism in Japan.

I think we can take the theme of gender equality as our sensitive topic.

For example, the design style of neutralisation or non-feminisation and the theme of emphasising the status of women. Strip the gender inequality attributes of Japanese women's clothing and create a new design that emphasises gender equality.

PROJECT 2 — FIELD STUDY

Instructions:

Gather research materials to bolster Project Ensure all research materials are meticulously recorded and documented, containing details such as:
Type of artifact/material.
Purpose.
Symbolism.
Cultural/historical context.

Opted to center our research on the three prominent cities in the Kansai region: Osaka, Kyoto, and Nara. This decision was based on two primary considerations:

Diversity of Perspectives: Osaka, renowned for its vibrant urban landscape and bustling nightlife, epitomizes modern Japan, while Kyoto and Nara stand as bastions of historical and cultural significance, embodying traditional Japan. Each city offers unique insights into the culture and fashion of the Kansai region, presenting a rich tapestry of perspectives.

Practicality: Osaka, Kyoto, and Nara are conveniently situated within close proximity to each other, facilitating ease of travel. The farthest city, Nara, is approximately an hour's commute and walk from our hostel in Shinsaibashi, Osaka. With each city being easily accessible, we plan to dedicate 1-2 days to explore the distinctive offerings of each locale.

2.2 OSAKA

Places visited: Osaka Castle, The Osaka Museum of Housing & Living, TeamLab Botanical Garden, and Dotonbori.

1. Osaka Castle:

Osaka Castle

2. The Osaka Museum of Housing & Living:

An interactive simulated village of Edo period Osaka city, including an old-fashioned cosmetics and fabric shop.

The Osaka Museum of Housing & Living

3. Dotonbori:

Dotonbori is a popular tourist destination in Osaka, Japan, known for its vibrant nightlife, bustling streets, and delicious street food. Located in the Namba district, Dotonbori is characterized by its colorful neon lights, eccentric signs, and lively atmosphere.One of the most iconic landmarks in Dotonbori is the Glico Running Man sign, featuring a giant neon athlete in mid-run. This sign has become a symbol of Osaka and is a popular spot for taking photos. Other notable attractions include the Kani Doraku crab sign, the Ebisubashi Bridge, and the Hozenji Yokocho alleyway, lined with traditional izakayas and restaurants.Dotonbori is famous for its diverse culinary offerings, ranging from takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (savory pancakes) to sushi and ramen. Visitors can explore the numerous food stalls and restaurants along the canal, indulging in a wide array of Japanese cuisine.In addition to its food and entertainment, Dotonbori is also a shopping paradise, with various shops selling everything from trendy fashion items to souvenirs and electronics.Overall, Dotonbori is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Osaka, offering a unique blend of culture, cuisine, and entertainment that showcases the vibrant spirit of the city.

2.3 KYOTO

Places visited: The Museum of Kyoto, Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, and Fushimi Inari Taisha.

The Museum of Kyoto:

The Museum of Kyoto, known as "Kyoto no Rekishi Minzoku Hakubutsukan" in Japanese, is a museum located in Kyoto, Japan. It's dedicated to preserving and showcasing the cultural heritage, history, and traditions of Kyoto, which was the former capital of Japan for over a thousand years.

The museum offers a comprehensive exploration of Kyoto's rich history through various exhibitions, artifacts, artworks, and interactive displays. Visitors can learn about the city's evolution from its ancient beginnings to its modern-day status as a cultural and artistic hub.

Exhibits at the Museum of Kyoto cover a wide range of topics, including traditional crafts such as ceramics, textiles, and lacquerware, as well as the history of Kyoto's famous festivals, temples, and shrines. There are also rotating exhibitions that focus on specific aspects of Kyoto's culture or historical periods.

One of the highlights of the museum is its collection of historical photographs, maps, and documents that provide insight into Kyoto's past. Visitors can gain a deeper understanding of the city's significance in Japanese history and its role as a center of culture, religion, and politics.

In addition to its permanent and temporary exhibitions, the Museum of Kyoto often hosts special events, workshops, and lectures related to Japanese culture and history. It's a valuable resource for both locals and tourists interested in learning more about Kyoto's heritage and traditions.

Arashiyama Bamboo Forest：

The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, located in the Arashiyama district on the western outskirts of Kyoto, Japan, is a mesmerizing natural attraction famous for its towering bamboo stalks that create a unique and serene atmosphere.

Visitors to the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove can stroll along a picturesque pathway lined with soaring bamboo plants, creating a tunnel-like effect that filters sunlight and casts beautiful patterns of light and shadow. The rustling of the bamboo leaves in the wind adds to the tranquil ambiance, making it a popular spot for nature lovers, photographers, and tourists alike.

The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is not only a scenic destination but also holds cultural significance in Japan. Bamboo has been deeply ingrained in Japanese culture for centuries, symbolizing strength, resilience, and purity. Walking through the bamboo forest provides a sense of tranquility and connection with nature, offering a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life.

In addition to exploring the bamboo grove, visitors to Arashiyama can also enjoy other attractions in the area, such as the historic Tenryu-ji Temple, the Togetsukyo Bridge spanning the Hozu River, and the enchanting Arashiyama Monkey Park.

Overall, the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Kyoto, offering a serene and magical experience that encapsulates the beauty of Japanese nature and culture.

Fushimi Inari Taisha.

Fushimi Inari Taisha is a renowned Shinto shrine located in Fushimi-ku, Kyoto, Japan. It is one of the most iconic and visited shrines in Japan, famous for its thousands of vibrant vermilion torii gates that create a striking visual spectacle. The shrine is dedicated to Inari, the Shinto deity of rice, agriculture, prosperity, and business.

Visitors to Fushimi Inari Taisha are greeted by the impressive Romon Gate at the entrance, which leads to the shrine's main buildings and worship halls. However, the most distinctive feature of the shrine is the Senbon Torii (thousands of torii gates) pathway that winds its way up Mount Inari. The torii gates, donated by individuals and businesses over centuries, form a network of trails through the forested mountain, creating a spiritual and picturesque hiking experience.

Walking through the torii gates is a popular activity for visitors, with many enjoying the serene atmosphere, lush greenery, and occasional glimpses of Kyoto city below. Along the trails, visitors will encounter various smaller shrines, stone fox statues (the messengers of Inari), and scenic viewpoints offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding area.

Fushimi Inari Taisha is not only a place of worship but also a symbol of prosperity and good fortune. Many visitors come to pray for success in business, wealth, and protection. The shrine is particularly lively during special events and festivals, such as the New Year celebrations and the fox-themed O-ichi Matsuri held annually in early February.

Overall, Fushimi Inari Taisha is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Kyoto, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural significance, and spiritual experience that captures the essence of Japan's rich heritage.

2.4 NARA

Places visited: Fushimi Inari Shrine

Fushimi Inari Taisha is a Shinto shrine located in Fushimi-ku, Kyoto, Japan. It's famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates, which form a network of paths leading up the wooded Mount Inari. This shrine is dedicated to Inari, the Shinto god of rice, prosperity, and business.

Visitors to Fushimi Inari Shrine can explore the shrine grounds, which include the main shrine buildings, worship halls, and various smaller shrines scattered along the mountain trails. The most iconic feature of the shrine is the Senbon Torii, or "thousands of torii gates," which create a mesmerizing tunnel-like pathway up the mountain.

Walking through the torii gates is a popular activity for visitors, with the gates leading to various smaller shrines, statues, and scenic viewpoints along the way. The entire hike can take several hours to complete, depending on the route chosen and the pace of the visitor.

Fushimi Inari Shrine is not only a place of religious significance but also a symbol of prosperity and good fortune. Many visitors come to the shrine to pray for success in business or to express gratitude for blessings received.

The shrine is particularly atmospheric during special events and festivals, such as the New Year celebrations and the Torii Matsuri (Torii Gate Festival) held annually in February. However, it's also a popular destination year-round, attracting millions of visitors from around the world who come to admire its beauty and immerse themselves in its spiritual ambiance.

Personal field research (photography）

Nara

Osaka Street

Kuromon Market

Personal proccess

After returning to Malaysia, we started to assign different accessories to different team members to create, my jewelry was bira-bira kanzashi, a hairpin with tassels

Accessories: bira-bira kanzashi

Bira Bira Kanzashi is a style of traditional Japanese hair ornament characterized by its dangling, fluttering pieces that catch and reflect light, creating a shimmering effect. The term "bira bira" roughly translates to "glittering" or "dangling" in Japanese, perfectly describing the distinctive feature of these ornate hair accessories. Originating in the Edo period (1603-1868), Bira Bira Kanzashi were initially worn by geisha and high-ranking courtesans as a symbol of status and sophistication. Over time, they became popular among women of various social classes for special occasions such as weddings, festivals, and formal ceremonies. Bira Bira Kanzashi typically consists of a base adorned with delicate metalwork, lacquer, or intricate fabric patterns, from which numerous dangling elements, often made of metal or silk, hang gracefully. These dangling pieces can vary in length, shape, and material, adding depth and movement to the ornament. Each Bira Bira Kanzashi is a masterpiece of craftsmanship, with artisans meticulously handcrafting each piece using traditional techniques passed down through generations. Today, Bira Bira Kanzashi continues to be cherished as a symbol of Japanese cultural heritage and is worn on special occasions to add elegance and charm to traditional attire. With its mesmerizing beauty and rich history, Bira Bira Kanzashi serves as both a stunning accessory and a testament to the enduring artistry of Japanese craftsmanship.

Sensitive : Reduction of traditional accessories Why do Japaneses wear traditional accessories less and less?

Design philosophy：Neutral decoration

Based on the Japanese traditional accountories, stripping or diluted the symbol of traditional rules. Emphasize pure aesthetics, a more modern design. The aim is to make the new generation of Japanese more accept the traditional accessories

Theme of Japanese cities：Maizuru Shi of Kyoto

Maizuru City, located in Kyoto Prefecture, Japan, has a strong connection to crane culture, primarily through its association with the red-crowned crane, known as the "tancho" in Japanese. key points regarding the relationship between Maizuru City and crane culture: Tancho Sanctuary: Maizuru City is home to the Tsuruga Tancho Sanctuary, a conservation area dedicated to protecting and preserving the red-crowned crane. The sanctuary provides a natural habitat for the cranes and plays a crucial role in their conservation efforts. Cultural Symbolism:The red-crowned crane holds significant cultural symbolism in Japan, representing longevity, fidelity, and good fortune. It is often depicted in art, literature, and traditional ceremonies as a symbol of beauty and grace. Conservation Efforts:Maizuru City actively participates in conservation efforts aimed at protecting the red-crowned crane and its natural habitat. Through initiatives such as habitat restoration, public awareness campaigns, and educational programs, the city strives to ensure the survival of this iconic species. Tourism and Awareness: The presence of the Tsuruga Tancho Sanctuary has also boosted tourism in Maizuru City, attracting visitors who come to observe and learn about the red-crowned cranes. This increased visibility helps raise awareness about the importance of crane conservation and promotes appreciation for Japan's natural heritage. Overall, Maizuru City's relationship with crane culture is rooted in its commitment to conserving and celebrating the red-crowned crane, highlighting the intersection of environmental stewardship, cultural heritage, and community engagement.

Why choose crane culture：A representative symbol of traditional art, with a neutral connotation

In Japanese culture, the image of the crane is deeply symbolic and is not directly tied to gender status. Instead, it carries meanings related to longevity, good fortune, and happiness. However, there are some indirect connections between the crane's symbolism and gender roles in Japanese society: Traditional Art and Literature: In traditional Japanese art and literature, cranes are often depicted as graceful and elegant creatures. This imagery is sometimes associated with ideals of femininity, as qualities like gracefulness and delicacy have been traditionally valued in Japanese women. Weddings:Cranes are commonly used as motifs in Japanese weddings, where they symbolize fidelity, longevity, and good luck. While not explicitly tied to gender, the use of cranes in wedding ceremonies can be seen as reinforcing traditional expectations of marriage and family, which have historically included specific gender roles. Origami:The folding of origami cranes, known as "tsuru," is a popular Japanese tradition. Origami cranes are often associated with wishes for peace, healing, and good fortune. While origami itself is not inherently gendered, the practice of folding cranes is often depicted as a peaceful and meditative activity, which may be more traditionally associated with women in Japanese culture. Overall, while the image of the crane in Japanese culture does not directly relate to gender status, there are subtle connections between its symbolism and traditional gender roles, particularly in the context of artistic representation and cultural practices. However, these associations are not rigid or universally applied, and interpretations of crane symbolism may vary among individuals and communities.

Bira-Bira Kanzashi, the theme of crane culture, has traditional rules that are both traditions and do not include traditional rules that are disgusted by the new generation of Japanese (the strict use scenarios of traditional Accessories have led to a decline in use of traditional accessories). Crane is also a symbol of the of a city in Kyoto.（Maizuru Shi） Meet the theme requirements of Kyoto.

Rational

After determining the design tone and theme, I started designing my Bira-Bira Kanzashi.I found a lot of information about Bira-Bira Kanzashi as a reference, but these references are only used for the concept of structural Bira-Bira Kanzashi.After consulting the information, I think Bira-Bira Kanzashi, the most important part is the tassel part (bira), and it needs to play a role in fixed hair and decoration.My design must be non -traditional, so as to break the limitations of traditional Japanese decoration.

traditional bira-bira kanzashi

In order to reflect the theme of the crane, I found some references. I decided to use the shape of the crane in the air as the design core.

https://pin.it/19KITH5oy

https://pin.it/7gj5gqU30

Sketch

Considering the process of making, I improved the middle part.At the same time, the Bira-Bira version was produced.Using asymmetric design.

Use a 0.25cm brass plate CNC processing. The tassel part is processed separately and connected to the iron ring.

Final Design

FINAL SUBMISSION PPT

Google Drive

https://www.canva.com/design/DAGAkvAzC28/EPtnKm4EN3DG43Hhq-ELUA/edit?utm_content=DAGAkvAzC28&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=sharebutton

REFLECTION

Since we became a group, there have undoubtedly been difficulties because we are from different countries and I am the only boy. In this practice, I realized that it is not enough to have professional ability, but also to have strong communication skills, and it is definitely not enough to rely on the strength of one person in the future work. I believe that's what cross-cultural design wants to teach us

搜索此博客

TAO YUZE (0366967) Bachelor of Design (Honours) in Creative Media