symbolic awareness - studio, 2021
Studio Symbolic Awareness provided a platform to speak and expand on a specific topic of importance in relation to social issues and activism. We explored the use of iconography and semiotics to break down complex themes with the use of simplified geometry and visual interpretations.
Creating conversations, raising awareness and gaining perspectives.
The major project tested our ability to symbolise a topic of importance to us in the context of creating a flag design. The topic I chose was based on identity as a biracial person. I reached this decision through my own experiences being half Asian as well as conversations with others who have experienced the common feeling of not belonging to the country they live in. Being multicultural is becoming more common especially in Australia yet there is still a sense of alienation and negativity that occurs.
My final design for my symbol of awareness flag consists of a vibrant green to represent me or any biracial person and the growth involved with understanding identity between cultures. The three brown forms symbolise the multiple countries/cultures connected, they are different shapes and sizes to separate, yet the same colour to show how they’re connected. The sheer black silk acts as a veil and sense of layering to show how others may view or assume from the outside. I allowed the silk to flow and not be completely adhered as not everyone will view in the same way and the negativity associated is not constant. I wanted my flag to be an abstract form of symbolism as it is a complex topic that can be hard to explain or understand. I hope that the viewer questions what they’re looking at, potentially gain their own understanding and then learn its true intent. As I feel this process is similar to the experience of someone who’s nationality is questioned.
