top of page

My Art Asian-nised

I have always been fascinated by my own heritage. As a Chinese living in a western country, Australia, there is always this fight for identity. Although some Chinese lifestyles and attitudes might be mixed in with those of Australia, knowing and exploring my origin and history can somewhat keep myself grounded.


English is my second language, and Chinese is my first, and I'm proud of it. Picking Japanese as my third language during my junior secondary studies also influenced my love for its language, culture and the arts. My art love language is Asian-nised, with both Chinese and Japanese influences.


From the spiritual and fluidity of Chinese Paintings and Calligraphy, to the boldness and mind evoking stories of Japanese Anime, to the elegant and tactile nature of Chinese Scrolls and Japanese Washi, and much more, together adding to the wonders of what I call Asian Art.


Below are few examples of my art and it's Asian influences. Reflecting on culture, symbolism, art styles and story telling.




 

Graduate Film Teardrops


NATURAL


  • Clouds Chinese  Symbol of luck and vessel of happiness. A heavenly body that means peace. Japanese It's fluidity, changing form is a good analogy for life, and this idea is strong for the Japanese, in particular in Buddhism, the cloud represents freedom and relevant in the teaching of life not bounded by earthly things.

  • Water Chinese  A symbol of worth, the Chinese compares water that flows to a constant income - life of abundance. Water can also take many forms, adjusting to it's container. Remembering one of Bruce Lee's famous quote - "Be Water My Friend". Water represents flexibility and adaptability. Japanese Water might be use for purification. It is something sacred and use to bless religious statues.

  • Lotus Chinese + Japanese  A flower that has characteristic of a gentleman, pure and untainted, even as to be growing out from the mud. This resilience is a symbol of the virtuous. Lotus represents rebirth in Buddhism, both Chinese and Japanese use it as a sign of the enlightened.

  • Mountains Chinese  Often depicted in Chinese Art, they are considered heavenly, being the closest thing to the skies. There is a old Chinese story of Yugong moves Mountains. This impossible task is a classic for achieving the impossible, hence a mountain is about reaching greater heights. Japanese The most famous mountain in Japan is Mt Fuji. Fuji is a meditative icon, a symbol of where the Gods and Spirits abide.

  • Spirits Chinese  They play an important role in Chinese mythology and folklore. Ghost of ancestors are to be honoured and respected. We find comfort in knowing those alive will be blessed by those that came before them. This worship is a key to Chinese Religions. Japanese This veneration also happens in Japan, typically Shinto, where Spirit are believed to take form of all things. Greatest examples can be seen in Miyazaki's 'Spirited Away'.



MANMADE


  • Pagodas Chinese They are built originally to house Buddhist relics and religious items. The levels means paths to enlightenment. Japanese A symbol for friendship and each level, the five elements - Water, Earth, Fire, Wind, Void (5 Story Pagoda).

  • Scrolls Chinese + Japanese  Traditionally used to frame Asian Brush Art and Calligraphy. Made from silk, and Xuan (Chinese) or Washi (Japanese) handmade paper.

  • Brush Chinese + Japanese  It's a paper symbol used to dictate & record the Law. A writing utensils for Asian calligraphy writers and painters. Commonly used in ancient times by scholars and artists alike.

  • Seals Chinese + Japanese  Yin Jian (Chinese) and Hanko (Japanese), the seal or stone stamp is an ancient form of signature. It is often used to confirm authority or authenticity.


 

Graduate Comic Conquering the Black Pearl


EVOLVED


  • Sun Chinese  A symbolism for light and better days. Often used to represent the Chinese Emperor. Japanese  The Sun Goddess is the founder of all material things. It is a noticeable symbol in their national flag, represented by the red spot.

  • Moon Chinese  The gentle and bright globe is viewed as a body for luck. Japanese  Figure of beauty, an omen for good harvest.

  • Fire Chinese  Warmth, energy and creativity but can mean restless and recklessness when things are not in balance. Japanese  The moving force or energies in the world. Sacred and element for purification.


  • Blood Chinese  Essence of Chi or the Spirit. Japanese  The bleeding of blood is a sign of loyalty and unwavering love.


CREATED


  • Abandoned Temples Chinese + Japanese Often used in Asian films to give a sense of the spiritual realm or a decaying past.

  • Pavilion Chinese + Japanese A common architecture found in Asian gardens and parks, with columns and a supporting roof. A place of rest, often near waterways.

  • Bridges Chinese  Connections and a symbol of Hope. Japanese  Symbol for transitioning or freedom of choice, to move back or forward across.

  • Canoes Chinese  Drifting and Unconstrained motions of life. Japanese Travelling, searching for knowledge, that or beyond life.

  • Asian Dragon Chinese  Flies through the air, a symbol for the Emperor. Japanese  Lives under the seas, a creature of power, wisdom, equilibrium and strength.

  • Martial Arts Chinese + Japanese Different fighting styles were developed through the centuries. Initially for self-defence has now become in modern times, national sports, like Tai Chi or Wushu (Chinese) and Sumo Wrestling (Japan).

  • Buddhism Chinese + Japanese Introduced from India to China and Japan. It has become a popular religion in Asian countries, from Han Buddhism to Zen Buddhism.

  • Chinese Emperor Chinese Qin Shi Huang, famous for the Terracotta Warriors, was considered to be the first emperor of China. The term 'Emperor' in Chinese was of his making.

  • Chinese Banquet Chinese To celebrate special occasions, or for business events, Chinese people like to put on banquets, often with eight or more dishes. In ancient times used to adorn the emperor or welcome his guests.

 

Illustrations Gyozarilla Tofumo Raaamen & Retro Bento


FOOD


  • La Mian/Ramen Chinese La Mian, common in Northern China, are wheat noodles, pulled and served in a broth. Japanese Ramen is considered a staple in Japanese cuisine. Wheat noodles served in a dashi, soy sauce and miso broth.

  • Octopus Chinese  Growth and Prosperity. Japanese  Healing since its limbs can regenerate.

  • Mushroom Chinese + Japanese Namely Shitake, mushrooms are a symbol for longevity, luck and health.

  • Tofu Chinese + Japanese A widely used global food and popular in Asian countries. It was first used in China during the Han Dynasty and Japan in the 8th century AD. Some believed it was made by accident while flavouring soybeans while others from the origins of cheese making.

  • Dumplings/Gyoza Chinese Dumplings are considered as the Chinese fast food dumplings has long been a staple of Northern China. Japanese Gyoza was made popularity in Japan during WW2(1940s)

  • Fan Tuan/Sushi Chinese Fan Tuan, gluttonous rice rolls or balls that originated from Shanghai and surrounding provinces. Japanese Sushi is an important staple in Japanese gastronomy, it can be part of a special celebration or representation of status. 'Sour Rice' as the name sushi suggests, are vinegared prepared rice served with variety of fillings or toppings.

  • Onigiri Japanese Originated from a salted fish dish known as Narezushi, Onigiri is the rice ball dish for workers. Onigiri is all about the soul, family values and love shared during a meal.

  • Fish Cakes/Narutomaki Chinese A variety of fish cakes are common delicacy used in hotpots.   Japanese Narutomaki are one of the common toppings for Japanese noodle dishes. The pink swirls are taken from the imagery of whirlpools in Naruto.

  • Chopsticks Chinese + Japanese A common utensil used by Asians. Originally to reach deep into the oil for cooking, these pairs of batons became a tool for picking up food to dine.

  • Bian Dang/Bento Box Chinese Bian Dang, which means 'convenient', has become a quick go to alternative for train travellers in Taiwan. Japanese Simply known as a lunch box, it is commonly filled with rice or noodles with other meats or pickles. Popular culture has made this simple box into a speciality menu item.


ENTERTAINMENT


  • Retro Computer Games Chinese Consoles were introduced into China after 'The Video Game Crash of 1983'.  Japanese Taito's 'Space Invaders' became the fore-father of Japanese arcade games. Other well known games include 'Pac Man' and 'Donkey Kong'.

  • Pixel Art Chinese + Japanese Known as Xiang Su (Chinese) and Dotto-e (Japanese), Pixel Art uses the concept of retro game graphics, designing art at pixel level.

  • Keai/Kawaii Art Chinese Keai meaning adorable has rose into the youth culture in China. Japanese Kawaii, a term to describe the cute, has bleed into all forms of art including manga, anime and other popular culture.

  • Walkman Japanese A portable audio player made popular in the 70s and 80s, marketed by Sony in 1979.

  • VHS Japanese The brainchild of Victor Company of Japan (JVC). It become a standard video format in the 80s and 90s.

  • Playing Cards Chinese  First woodblock printed, dating back to Tang Dynasty, 9th century. Japanese Introduced by the Portuguese approximately mid 16th century.

  • Lanterns Chinese + Japanese  Originally made with paper on a bamboo frame, lanterns were often used for festivals, for rituals or prayer intentions. It is a symbol for new beginnings, warm and sunlight.

 

Fanart & Animation 

Ghibli, Chainsaw Man, Fushigi Yûgi, Final Fantasy

THEMES


  • Personification Chinese + Japanese  Giving non-human objects human characteristics are foundations of many cartoons or comics.

  • Imaginary Worlds Chinese + Japanese  Often these imagery worlds are created with the three foundations of the universe in mind - Earth, Heaven and Humankind. The order and relationships between them.

  • High School Chinese + Japanese  School environments have become a common theme used in Chinese films and Japanese anime. Uniforms have made it into common fashion trends.



STYLES

  • Computer Games Chinese + Japanese  Gaming are popular in both countries. Japanese games inspired by manga, Chinese by novels and cultural stories.

  • Animated Violence Chinese + Japanese  Animation provides a good platform to portray violence that are not possible in live- action. Although controversial, violent cartoons or anime are made popular in both countries, directed to more an adult audience.

  • Comic Book Chinese  They have a fair share of their own comics with themes ranging from the martial arts to historical stories. Japanese  Has become a common part of Japanese lifestyle. People of all ages read comics. Comics directed to different age groups.

 

Handmade Cards Weddings & Birthdays

COLOURS


  • Red Chinese Luck, Joy and Happiness. Japanese Protection and Peace.

  • Yellow Chinese Royal, status and authority. Japanese Sacred, hope, youth and change.

  • White Chinese Pure and fulfilment but can also mean grief and used in funerals. Japanese Colour of the Gods and used for Shinto weddings.

  • Green Chinese + Japanese  Green is a lucky colour for both cultures and it represents energy, eternity and harmony.

  • Blue Chinese Both a good and bad colour. It represents healing and loyalty, yet can be used in funerals. Japanese Purity, calm and stability.


MATERIALS


  • Origami Paper Chinese + Japanese  As the name suggests in Japanese, it is simply an art form of paper folding, originally used for decorations or ceremonies, its origins tracing back to China.

  • Paper Chinese + Japanese  Xuan (Chinese) or Washi (Japanese), handmade paper has been of cultural significance for the Asian Arts. Traditionally used in crafts, decorations, calligraphy and painting.

  • Calligraphy Ink Chinese + Japanese  Made from the soot of burning pine resin, calligraphy ink has been used by both cultures for centuries as a writing or painting medium.

  • Glass Chinese Brought from the West to China around the 3rd Century, Han Dynasty. Glass was a cheap alternative to Jade. Japanese Imported and made popular in Japan during the fourth century.

 

Celebrations & Gifts Lunar New Year & Cultural Identity


SYMBOLISM


  • God of Wealth Chinese Caishen, a mythical character worshipped in folk religions, Taoism and often celebrated to welcome the Lunar New Year.

  • Zodiac/Spirit Animals Chinese + Japanese  To represent the cycle of years or birth year. Japanese  Yokai, spirits in Japanese Folklore that often have animal characteristics.

  • Lion Dance Chinese Steep in tradition and culture significance, a popular dance using a lion costume, while mimicking its movements to drums and percussion. Originated from ancient stories of driving out evil monsters, it's a common performance used to celebrate Lunar New Year.

  • Red Banners/Words of Blessings Chinese Red is a lucky colour. During Lunar New Year, messages and well wishes are written on red banners, posted at home or offered as gifts.

  • Mandarins Chinese Mandarins in Cantonese sounds similar to the word 'Gold' and hence are used in celebrating Lunar New Year, to bring upon fruitful harvest and prosperity.

  • Masks Chinese Masks are classic to Chinese Operas and different designs are used to represent different personalities. Japanese Often used in ceremonies, dance, or for facial protection like those of the Samurai.

  • Eyes Chinese + Japanese In Asian cultures the eyes represents the soul or the spirit and hence often used to represent luck, courage, life and healing.



SHAPES


  • Patterns Chinese + Japanese Often used in Asian Art, Architecture and Fashion. These might be of nature, animals, mystical creatures or geometrical shapes.

  • Circle Chinese Harmony and Completeness, balanced like Ying and Yang. Japanese The Enso Symbol, a circle design representing Strength, Light and the Universe.

  • Square/Diamond Chinese Balanced, things in alignment and order. Japanese Solidity and Control.

  • Triangle Chinese Symbol to represent the three main forces - heaven, earth and humanity. Japanese Energy, a stable body.

 

Exhibitions & Experiments Scrolls, Posters, Cardboard & Mix Media

LIVE

  • Poems Chinese Form of expression in traditional, both public and private quarters. Japanese Haiku, a form of poetry that depicts the changing of Seasons.

  • Board Games/Chess Chinese + Japanese Chess has been a popular pastime not only in western countries but Asian countries also have their own form of this board game - Xiangqi (China) and Shoji (Japan).

  • Dining Etiquette Chinese + Japanese Etiquette is important to Asian when dining. It's giving respect or honouring your host or people you are dining with.

  • Wine Chinese A sign of prosperity, a common drink consumed in celebrative events. Japanese Means life's hope, consumed in happy situations.

  • Soup Chinese + Japanese Common in East Asian cuisine for medicinal purposes or everyday stock or as a complimentary dish for special events.

  • Blue China Chinese During Tang Dynasty, blue become a popular colour used in ceramics. It came from imported Persian cobalt ores. Ceramics were created using Chinese glazing with Persian Arts.

LIFE


  • War Chinese + Japanese  Plagued its civilisation since the dawn of time from the imperial to modern. Both fighting among themselves or with neighbouring countries.

  • Peace/Remembrance Chinese  Pleading for Peace - The Wangchuan Ceremony Japanese Resilience and long lasting.

  • Dust Chinese + Japanese A common term used in Buddhism particularly 'Red Dust' in reference to the mundane human world in which believers strive to empty from.

  • Environment/Nature Chinese + Japanese Daoism believe on the crucial flows of nature and advises people to maintain a balance relationship with nature in order for health and moral stability.

  • Snow Chinese The colour of White Jade - pure and royal. Japanese Like love, pure yet ephemeral - melting away.

  • Whales Chinese Deities that protect the seas and ocean life. Japanese Embodies the God Ebisu - God of Wealth.

  • Wings Chinese Source of Wisdom. Japanese Used to decorate many furnishing, a symbol for wealth & longevity.


 

Design & Print Business & Play


GROWTH


  • Enoki Japanese Short for Enoki-take, a type of mushroom popular in Asian cuisines. They are small and grow in a bunch. With long stems and tiny convex caps.

  • Leaf Chinese All the beings of the universe. Japanese Resilience and long lasting.

  • 4 Elements Chinese + Japanese Classic elements in Asian cultures - Earth, Fire, Water, Wind. In Buddhism they relate these to human sufferings and temperaments.

  • Tentacles/Octopus Chinese  Power and Disruption that extends to the far reaches of Earth. Japanese Connects with the Sea Goddess that protect. A Symbol for longevity.




GAME


  • Ninjas Japanese Warfare agents in feudal Japan for infiltration and seizing missions.

  • Mah-jong Chinese A four player tile game introduced during the 19th Century. A strategy and luck game build upon winning combinations.

  • Big 2 Chinese A Cantonese card game with two to four players. It is based on similar poker hands with Two of Spades as the highest card.

  • Eight Chinese Sounds like the word 'wealth', a symbol for prosperity. Japanese The kanji for eight widens gradually representing a growing wealth.

  • Four Chinese + Japanese Sounds like the word 'death', steeped in superstitions and considered unlucky.

 

*Image contents created by Ming Studios or by their respective party(s). (Includes frames, brought and craft materials. Featuring fanart and merchandise).

**Informational contents referenced and compilated from various internet sources.

Credit goes to the original sources and owners. General fun facts and information only. I take no particular stance or have done any official fact check. Read at your leisure only.

bottom of page