Master of Design 2020

Graduating Mid-Year Showcase

Zhuoran Li

An exploratory project in traditional Japanese aesthetics of the acceptance of impermanence. Beauty in ugliness and volatility; displayed by generative art of noise pattern, shadow, and sound in the virtual world, as they slowly decay under the influence of time. The project highlighting the essence of Wabi-Sabi is incorporated into the visuals, sounds and interactions.

zhuoran16120@gmail.com

Zhuoran Li, Wabi-Sabi

The right-side pattern is my expression about impermanence in the virtual world, which is transformed from colorful noise pattern on the left side. Wabi-Sabi is not rational, it is emotional and sensual aesthetic with warmth. The pattern will change with time, sound, and user’s interaction.

Zhuoran Li, Wabi-Sabi

This is my exploration creating light and shadow by time-derived noise patterns. The relationship between light and shadowiness is believed contributing to the beauty of Wabi-Sabi. The light and shadowiness are driven by time and interaction from the user.

Zhuoran Li, Wabi-Sabi

This picture shows extracting beats from music and transforms the rhythms into signals to affect the change of graphics and alternation of light and shadow.

Zhuoran Li, Wabi-Sabi

Put simply, there is no definition for Wabi-Sabi, if it could be defined, it would not be Wabi-Sabi. It is a difficult idea. Just enjoy it.