Peranakan Fairytales - Illustrated Book (WIP)

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Peranakan Fairytales - WIP

Silent Book Contest - 28 paged Illustration Book
(will be updated with final artwork + cover illustration)

Concept: I wish to highlight the 3 different generations of Peranakan women in this illustrated book. Each generation is tied to its motif and external societal influence. The oldest generation, represented by the peonies, firmly believes in the domestic roles played by the women. As such, they are more traditional in terms of the way they think and present themselves to the public. These traits are considered desirable for grooms to be in the form of hovering bees. The second generation wishes to come out of that conservative sphere when European culture is introduced into the Peranakan culture. Here we see the onset of roses, rabbits and bonnets which are central motifs in European culture. This creates a rift between traditional perceptions and the newer thoughts, causing the drowning of traditional culture practices. Eventually, the 3rd generation (21st century) recognizes the importance of culture preservation, and also the importance of cultural evolution to adapt to changing times. The final mirage reflects the movements of a kaleidoscope, which essentially pictures the many possibilities of Peranakan culture's evolution. The butterflies are also an apt representation of the current times, where freedom from ties and freedom of thoughts can bring the culture to a whole new light.

That is the fairytale for 21st century Peranakans.