TRANSCULTURAL ODYSSEY: From Chongqing to Singapore is based on my personal experiences, representing a cross-cultural journey from my hometown, Chongqing, China, to an 8-year study in Singapore. The project aims to explore the cultural differences and difficulties that an international student faces by focusing on the rich interplay of customs, traditions, and daily practices that define life in both Chongqing and Singapore. In the end, the project aims to craft a personal odyssey, reflecting my unique journey and experiences.
The first phase of my project involves the design of a central protagonist, intended to embody both my personal identity and the cultural essence of Chongqing. This character will be distinctively rendered in a unique art style, setting it apart from the rest of the illustrations that depict the urban landscapes and social customs of Singapore.
Drawing inspiration from the works of Cubist artists, particularly Picasso, I embraced an abstract style characterized by random colors and shapes. Despite this departure, I maintained the symbolic red and yellow hues, emblematic of Chongqing. I also added some of my personal elements, such as spectacles.
The final deliverables of my project included:
1) An A1-sized foam board with six separate scenes depicting my surprising journey in Singapore, with seven windows handmade of cardboard that could be opened and closed by the viewers.
2) A photo book with illustrated scene “photos” and handwriting.
3) An eight-page fold book with three scenes, composed of paper-cutting, pop-out techniques, etc.
4) Four postcards with project visual elements and patterns.
5) Two pieces of A3-sized stickers of character design.
The Final Booth was selected to be featured in NTU_ADM's Instagram Video for the ADM Grad Show.
Link at: https://www.instagram.com/reel/C6n9JaHLa2N/?igsh=MXN6cWFtanJjOWZyNQ==