Intercultural Design: Proposal, Data Collection & Visual Design

09/02/2024 - 22/03/2024 / Week 1 - Week 7

Lim En Yu / 0354452

Intercultural Design / Bachelor of Design (Hons) in Creative Media / Taylor’s University 

Proposal, Data Collection & Visual Design

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. Instructions

2. Project 1: Proposal

3. Project 2: Data Collection

4. Final Project: Visual Design

4. Feedback

5. Reflection

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Instructions

Fig 1.1 Module Information

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Project 1: Proposal

1. Culture of interest

To begin, I have done some research to explore the definition of the research theme "Cultural sensitivity." Given its broad nature and diverse interpretations, I sought to gain a comprehensive understanding of its various meanings and implications.

Here is what I got from the internet:

Link of the document: https://www.nyc.gov/assets/ochia/downloads/pdf/cultural_sensitivity_wkshp.pdf

Fig 2.1.1 Definition of Cultural Sensitivity, Week 2 (16/2/2024)

During our first meeting, we suggested different cultures that we could base our project. The suggested cultures were:

1. 24 festive drums
2. Face paint culture, ex: Dia de los Muertos (mexico), holi (spring festival in india), tribal dance (africa)
3. Baba Nyonya culture
4. Multicultural storybook collection
5. Language (Malay, Chinese and Indian)

After our first respective 2 hour long meeting, we voted on the research topic: Face Paint culture in Dia de los Muertos.

Regarding our visual outcome, we contemplated the idea of applying face paint directly onto our faces, as well as creating a 3D model or a short video presentation to showcase aspects of this culture.

2. Research

After deciding the topic which is the Day of the Dead (Dia de los muertos), we have divided the tasks among ourselves which some of us are responsible for research while the rest responsible for the preliminary idea outcomes in the slide.

We decided to begin by thoroughly examining and addressing the following questions as part of our research: 

1. What is Day of the Dead?
2. Why is Day of the Dead?
3. What does Day of the Dead face paint symbolise?
4. How do you paint your face for Day of the Dead?

What is Day of the Dead?

Day of the Dead (Dia De Los Muertos) is a two day holiday that reunites the living and dead. Families create ofrendas (Offerings) to honor their departed family members that have passed. Calaveras, smiling skulls, integral to Day of the Dead, symbolize celebrating life in the face of death through various forms. (Ex: Face Paint)

(Cereal Ventures,n.d.)

Why Day of the Dead?

The imagery conne­cted to Dia de los Muertos, like­ skulls and skeletons, may see­m unpleasant or unnerving for those who do not grasp the­ meaningful symbols and cultural background. The potrayal of Dia de los Muertos in art or celebrations requires sensitivity and understanding, so that more people can appreciate and embrace this cultural. The final product can become more appealing and accessible to a wider audience.

Fig 2.2.1 Poster of movie "Coco", Week 3 (19/2/2024)

Also, the topic that we have chosen is also inspired by the movie "Coco". "Coco" is a 2017 American animated fantasy film produced by Pixar Animation Studios and released by Walt Disney Pictures. The concept for Coco is inspired by the Mexican holiday Day of the Dead.

Movies such as "Coco" have placed death in a central role, encouraging both children and adults to view it not with sorrow or dread, but rather as a celebration of life itself. When children inquire about the concept of death, the film emphasizes the importance of remembering those who have passed, as memory serves as a continuation of life.

The document attached below is the compilation of our group's research about the Day of the Dead (Dia de los muertos):

Fig 2.2.2 Document of proposal, Week 3 (19/2/2024)

3. Individual ideation and sketches

Idea 1: Face Paint

The first idea of visual outcome we have decided is recreating and reforming a face paint. The purpose of us doing so is to increase the acceptability of publics toward the face paint. Also, we aim to introduce this culture and attract public's attention toward Dia de los muertos and its unique face paint culture.

Fig 2.3.1 Skectehs of face paint, Week 3 (20/2/2024)

Fig 2.3.2 Deatiled view of petals and beads on face paint, Week 3 (20/2/2024)

Fig 2.3.3 Flowers on head, Week 3 (20/2/2024)

Since face paint plays a central role in Dia de los Muertos, we have chosen to reform it by altering the eye shadow color and introducing minor decorations. We enhance the overall face paint with vibrant colors and minor decorations to make it more appealing and accessible to introduce to the public. By adapting the face paint in this way, individuals can continue to participate in Dia de los Muertos festivities while acknowledging and respecting the cultural context from which it originates.

Idea 2: Theme Mask

Other than that, our second idea of final visual outcome will be a 3D mask that made up of clay or 3D modeling face mask that represents the face paint of the Day of the Dead. Here is a reference that we have found online:

Website link: https://en.as.com/en/2021/11/02/latest_news/1635809019_203219.html

Fig 2.3.4 Reference for idea 2t, Week 3 (20/2/2024)

The mask is based on the artwork produced by the Mexico‘s The Day of the Dead  face paint, the mask retains the traditional structure of the face paint , and is optimized to make the mask look less scary,

 a more gentle design can make more people feel comfortable and inclusive.

By designing the mask, we can inherit and protect the traditional culture of Mexico, and also help the younger generation to understand and respect the traditional culture of Mexico.

Fig 2.3.5 Skectehs of Theme Mask, Week 3 (20/2/2024)

Idea 3: Short Video Film

A short visual film is an efficient path to transfer messages to the audience. The purpose of this short film is to showcase the celebration of the Day of the Dead and their face painting art to introduce this culture and their very own perspective on death in life from Mexico to the world. 

This video will consist of the process of face painting experience on ourselves. Since the skull face paint is commonly perceived as scary and terrifying in Asian countries, street interview scenes will be shown as content in the video to survey interviewee’s reaction.

The video format will be documentary style as mexican music will be used as background music and together with clips to create an opportunity for audience to experience this culture. 

Final Group Proposal

Fig 2.4.1 Group 30 Proposal slides (PDF), Week 3 (22/2/2024)

Fig 2.4.2 Group 30 Proposal Presentation, Week 3 (22/2/2024)

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Project 2: Data Collection

1. Research methods

Before we started our data collection stage, we have discussed about several research methos that we going to have which are:

    1. Method 1: Interview

    2. Method 2: Online Research

2. Research Method 1: Interview

Google Form (Online Interview)

First, we have created a google form for publics to answer. The google form aims to gain a better understanding of how much publics know about Day of the Dead, their perspectives towards the Day of the Dead, face paint culture and also their acceptability of it and also after we have reformed it.

Fig 3.1.1 Google Form (Online Interview), Week 5 (04/03/2024)

Physical Interview

To collect detailed and accurate data, our group has also planned to visit the Mexican Restaurant "Chica Bonita" which the theme of the restaurant is Dia de los muertos. It is located in Publika Shopping Gallery.

Address: Lot 34, Level G2, Block C5 Publika Shopping Gallery, Solaris Dutamas, 50480 Kuala Lumpur

Fig 3.1.2 Decorations of sugar skulls on wall in Chica Bonita, Week 4 (02/03/2024)

Fig 3.1.3 Detailed view of sugar skull, Week 4 (02/03/2024)

Fig 3.1.4 Mexican style of decorations in Chica Bonita, Week 4 (02/03/2024)

Fig 3.1.5 Mexican food in Chica Bonita, Week 4 (02/03/2024)

The ambiance at Chica Bonita bursts with lively hues, creating a visually stunning experience. The outdoor tables offer a picturesque view of Publika's outdoor square and stage, while the interior of the restaurant features a spacious layout adorned with sugar skulls and artwork inspired by Dia de los Muertos.

Fig 3.1.6 Video of visiting Chica Bonita, Week 4 (02/03/2024)

For the interview, we have asked for permission to interview with the manager, Ms Ashrini inadvance and we are thankful for her cooperation. 

We have prepared a set of questions that related to our topic which is the Day of the Dead (Dia de los muertos) in order to have a deeper understanding about this culture.

Questions for interview:

1. Can you explain the significance and origins of Dia de los Muertos?

2. How do families honor their deceased loved ones during Dia de los Muertos?

3. Are there any specific rituals or customs observed during Dia de los Muertos?

4. How has the celebration of Dia de los Muertos evolved over time?

5. What role does art, such as altars and calaveras, play in Dia de los Muertos celebrations?

6. How does Dia de los Muertos compare and contrast with other cultural celebrations of death and remembrance?

7. How do you personally feel about Dia de los Muertos, and what does it mean to you and your community?

Fig 3.1.7 Group photo with interviewee at Chica Bonita, Week 4 (02/03/2024)

Fig 3.1.8 Full interview  video with Manager of Chica Bonita, Week 4 (02/03/2024)

3. Research Method 2: Online Research

Other than that, the second method that we have chosen will be online research. After the first research in the proposal stage, we proceed to research deeper and more accurate data related to face paint in Dia de los muertos.

Fig 3.2.1 Data compilation of research & online interview (PDF), Week 5 (07/03/2024)

Here is the final slides of our data collection:

Fig 3.2.2 Group 30 Data Collection Slides (PDF), Week 5 (07/03/2024)

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Project 3: Visual Design

1. Sketches

As the theme will be a family theme, we have allocated each person a role in a family. The family members will be father, mother, eldest daughter, second daughter, third daughter and youngest sister, and each of the member represent different meaning. When the family members come together, their distinct face paint designs will blend harmoniously, symbolizing the unique qualities and contributions of each individual within the family unit.

Father

• Black base
• Representing his role as the protector and provider of the family
• Geometric patterns and tribal-inspired motifs -  symbolizing strength, resilience, and wisdom
• Bold lines and angular shapes - striking and masculine appearance

Fig 4.1.1 Sketch #1, Week 6 (15/03/2024)

Mother

• Abundance of colorful flowers
• Symbolizing her nurturing and caring nature
• Flowers can be intricately painted around her eyes
• Shades of pink, purple, and yellow can be used to create a vibrant and joyful look

Fig 4.1.2 Sketch #2, Week 6 (15/03/2024)

Eldest Daughter

• Feature elegant patterns
• Reflecting her maturity and responsibility within the family
• Delicate swirls and filigree designs
• With touches of gold to add sophistication and grace

Fig 4.1.3 Sketch #3, Week 6 (15/03/2024)

Second Daughter

• Feature elegant patterns
• Reflecting her maturity and responsibility within the family
• Delicate swirls and filigree designs
• With touches of gold to add sophistication and grace

Fig 4.1.4 Sketch #4, Week 6 (15/03/2024)

Third Daughter

• Incorporate elements of nature and growth
• Symbolizing her youthful energy and vitality.
• Leafy vines and floral patterns
• With shades of green to evoke a sense of freshness and renewal

Fig 4.1.5 Sketch #5, Week 6 (15/03/2024)

Youngest Daughter

• Sweet and innocent, reflecting her youth and innocence
• Baby pink colour can be used to create gentle swirls and hearts
• Small flower or heart motifs can be scattered across her face - adding a touch of whimsy and charm

Fig 4.1.6 Sketch #6, Week 6 (15/03/2024)

2. Visual References 

Our sketches of visual outcome are based on some redesigned face paint of Dia de los muertos. These are all the visual references that applied some dried flowers, motifs, beads and more colours compared to the traditional face paint.

Fig 4.2.1 Visual Reference #1, Week 3 (22/02/2024)

Fig 4.2.2 Visual Reference #2, Week 3 (22/02/2024)

Fig 4.2.3 Visual Reference #3, Week 3 (22/02/2024)

3. Materials

Here is all the materials that we have used for face paint:

Fig 4.3.1 Materials used for face paint, Week 8 (25/03/2024)

1. Colors luminiscent paint Face Body Art Paint UV Glow Fluorescent Glowing Halloween Party Fancy Dress Beauty Makeup Dar

https://shp.ee/6zhhohe

Fig 4.3.2 Luminiscent paint, Week 7 (18/03/2024)

2. Bobeini Liquid Eyeliner Pencil Black Brown Color Eyeliner Pen Long Lasting Waterproof Liquid Lying Silkworm Shadow Pen Eye 

https://shp.ee/pu4rgqy

Fig 4.3.3 Eyeliner, Week 7 (18/03/2024)

3. MAYCHEER Waterproof Concealer Foundation Cream Full Coverage Spots Dark Circles Face Makeup 

https://shp.ee/pum8iqn

Fig 4.3.4 Concealer foundation cream, Week 7 (18/03/2024)

4. Hot Sell Face Rhinestone Diamond Sticker Eyebrow Eye Pad Forehead Face Decoration Acrylic Crystal Party 

https://shp.ee/b6bnmu9

Fig 4.3.5 Colourful beads, Week 7 (18/03/2024)

5. Face paint 15 Colors Non-toxic Water Based Paint Face Body Painting Makeup Set

https://shp.ee/aiv8zsy

Fig 4.3.6 Face paint, Week 7 (18/03/2024)

6. Heads Rose European Silk Artificial Peony Flower for Home/ Wedding/ Wall Fake Flower Decoration

https://shp.ee/tfzvlrp

Fig 4.3.7 Flowers, Week 7 (18/03/2024)

7. Box Natural Dried Flowers Dry Flower for Soap, Candle, Frame

https://shp.ee/1szqlub

Fig 4.3.8 Dried flowers, Week 7 (18/03/2024)

Street Interview Video

Other than that, we have also carried out a street interview video with some of our face paint on, and also we aim to see and survey the passers-by reactions.

Interview Questions:

1. Have you seen this kind of face paint before? 

2. How did you feel when you first saw this face paint? 

3. How would you describe the differences between th picture i shown here and this girl/ boy? 

4. Would you be interested in trying out this type of face paint for yourself? Why or why not?

Fig 4.4.1 Short interview video, Week 8 (25/03/2024)

Progress Video

Here is a short progress video that we have recorded while we were carrying out our face paint:

Fig 4.5.1 Progress video of face painting, Week 8 (25/03/2024)

Physical Presentation Video

For our group's final presentation it will be conducted physically as our final visual outcome will be face paint. We have scheduled a physical meeting with Dr Charles in campus on 30th March, Friday. Here is the our physical final presentation video:

Fig 4.6.1 Group 30 Physical presentation video, Week 8 (25/03/2024)

Fig 4.6.2 Group 30 Final presentation slides, Week 8 (25/03/2024)

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Feedback

Week 5: We have shown Mr Charles our proposal and which stage we are in currently. About data collection, Mr Charles has suggested us to not use the word "scary" in the google form, instead, we change to the word "accessibility". Also, Mr Charles suggested us to do 6 face paints on each of our faces with variations or minor changes that represent something. He also adviced us to make the face paint in a more celebrative style and we could also utilise glow in the dark paint. 

Week 6: In this week, we have shown Mr Charles our final skecthes of 6 face paints which are the sketcehs of our final visual outcome. Mr Charles has given good comments of it and we have scheduled a physical presentation in campus with Mr Charles. We will be presenting our face paints physically and walk around the campus to showcase our face paints. Other than that, Mr Charles suggested us to have a speficic colour theme of clothes on that day so we will be having a matching style.

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Reflection

Experience

To be honest, this project was literally the first time we have been given a lot of freedom to decide the topic of our project and even we can choose what we going to produce for our final visual outcome. Basically, the whole direction of project is based on the teamwork and balance of our group dynamic. I think my group did well for this as all of our group members have participated in every meeting and discussion.

Observations

During the semester, I came to observe that intercultural design encompasses more than just creating designs for many cultures. It involves being aware of cultural differences, context, and health practices. By carrying out this project, we get to know about a specific culture and able to promote it and attract audience by producing a visual outcome, such as ours face paint.

Findings

During this module, I've gained a deeper appreciation for the significance of our project beyond its immediate scope. It is not just a project to complete, but rather an enriching journey that allows us to immerse ourselves in cultures that may otherwise remain unfamiliar to us in our daily routines. This experience provides a unique opportunity to expand our horizons, broaden our understanding, and foster a greater sense of empathy and appreciation for diverse cultural perspectives. By actively engaging with different cultures through our project work, we not only enhance our own knowledge and awareness but also contribute to building a more inclusive and interconnected global community.