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Intercultural Design

Anggia Tsani Rachmadiyanti, (0368487)
Intercultural Design / GCD61304
Project 1: Proposal (30%)
(Week 1 - Week 7) 

 CONTENT LIST 

  • Module Brief PDF
  • Lecture Notes
TASK 1: PROPOSAL (week 1 - 3)
  • Research PDF document
  • FINAL TASK 1 PROPOSAL SLIDES PDF 
  • TASK 1 Reflection

TASK 2: FIELD STUDY & DATA COLLECTION (week 4 - 5)
  • Research PDF document
  • FINAL TASK 2 SLIDES with photos from the trip
  • TASK 2 Reflection

TASK 3: FINAL PROJECT + TIKTOK
  • FINAL TASK 3 Slides & TikTok Videos Link
  • My Individual Overall Final Reflection
  • Group Reflection

 MODULE BRIEF 



 Lecture Notes 

 Lect 1 / Culture & Design 
  • Visuals are powerful persuasive medium to provide most information int he world.
  • 40 % of people respond more to visuals than to text
  • 90% of information transmitted to the brain is visuals.
  • Visuals are processed 60,000x faster in the brain than text.
  • Visuals are everything that can be seen, produced or created by human.
  • Visuals has functions, content and communicative purpose.
  • "Designers need to be aware of cultural nuances, symbolism, and context to create designs that are inclusive and resonate with diverse audiences. "
DESIGN SIGNIFICANCE:

from the lecture slides

DESIGN SYSTEM:  

from the lecture slides

DESIGN SENSITIVITY:
  • SYMBOLISM & IMAGERY: Some symbols/images can carry different meanings in different countries/cultures. Designers should be mindful of different cultural interpretations to avoid unintentional misunderstandings or offense.
  • TYPOGRAPHY & LANGUAGE: Choosing text/font styles that are culturely appropriate is important. Considering language variations & making sure there's accurate translations is crucial for reaching diverse audiences.
  • COLOUR CONSIDERATIONS: Colours can have many cultural significance, and their meanings may vary across different societies. 
  • INCLUSIVE DESIGNS: We should try to create products & experiences that are accessible & inclusive for people from various backgrounds, including those with different abilities and needs.
  • LOCALISATION: adapting designs to specific cultural contexts through localization can enhance the relevance & acceptance of a product.
  • USER RESEARCH: Conducting user research across diverse groups helps designers gain insights into cultural preferences & behaviours.
  • CULTURAL AWARENESS TRAINING: Designers may benefit from cultural awareness training to develop a deeper knowledge of diverse perspectives & sensitivities.


Task 1 - PROPOSAL

 Team Members & our Research 

  • We formed a group of 6 people, and then we had to come up with a proposal and 3 sketches of 'Everyday Design' based on a chosen country/culture.
MEMBERS: 
  • Yong Wenyi (Leader) -  0372679
  • Emily Ong Su Yu - 0365304
  • Wong Li Wei - 0364538
  • Anggia Tsani Rachmadiyanti - 0368487
  • Feng Zhiyu - 0376171
  • Erin Samantha Fenner - 0381696

We decided to focus on making an "everyday design" product that is based on Yukata technology which has Japanese design styles and culture implemented on it. Our goal is to make a product that people can wear everyday and is multi-functional and easy to carry around. We first did a deep research on everyday design in Japanese culture.

Here is our PDF of Research on the first weeks..



 FINAL PROPOSAL SLIDES 



 Presentation Video Recording: 



 TASK 1 - REFLECTION :

To conclude, for this first task my group found it quite difficult at first since we were not really clear on how and what to do for the research, but later on after several feedbacks from Ms. Anis, we got to further improve our work and fix our mistakes. Im happy about our progress as a group. We held many online meetings too an night every week so that we can work on our research and slides proposal together. Because of this research task, I got to learn more of Japanese culture and symbolism of the patterns they use and how Everyday Item is like in Japanese culture. It's really interesting as there were many things I did not know of before this task. Overall, we managed to finish the proposal slides successfully and we were happy with our outcome.



 TASK 2 - Data Collection &  Observations 

  • After finishing task 1, from week 4 - 5 we had to do further primary research, observations and analysis of Japanese items in Japanese shops we find around KL (since our Japan trip was cancelled).
  • We took pictures and documented several items, patterns and designs of the Japanese items so that we could later analyse their design and improve our Everyday Item sketch.

OUR RESEARCH METHODS:

- Observation study (find Japanese stores around KL)
- Google Form Survey for getting public's opinion (target: GenZs and Millenials)
- Extra Visual Online research

1) Field Study
  • We went to several places:
    • Pavillion KL Tokyo Street: Kuma Yukata shop
    • Muji
    • UniQlo
    • Kinokuniya
    • Nitori
2) Google Form Survey

  • We share the google forum survey link on our Instagram Stories:

Here was our earlier PDF draft and notes for Task 2..

 FINAL TASK 2 SLIDES: 




 TASK  2- REFLECTION :

In this task, I've gained much more deeper knowledge on Japanese design styles and patterns especially from the site visit study where i've observed that most Japanese design and patterns have nature elements in it because Japanese culture is very closely linked to nature such as the seigaha waves, sakura flowers, vines and more. Japan really appreciate, loves and have a deep connection with nature and its elements, which is clearly reflected in Japanese culture, art, and religion. Shintoists revere nature for its beauty and sacredness. Japan also have many seasonal festivals to celebrate nature's beauty. Moreover, in his task we were able to deeply analyse our google form survey responses as this part is really important because we have to give a final outcome which satisfies what the public want on our design. Lastly, I had fun creating the final sketch design of the 2 in 1 tote bag clothing and implementing Japanese design, colour and patterns on it. 




 TASK 3 - Final Project "TikTok" Videos 

  

Our Presentation Recording:





 My Individual Self-Reflection: 


Throughout this whole Intercultural Design module and Group Project, i’ve gained so much more knowledge on how meanings are put into designs we see everyday and how impactful it can be. Personally, I found this module really tough especially since it is a short semester and we had to do a huge amount of researches as a group. However, there were many things I’ve learnt from this whole group project.

In this project, I’ve explored how Japanese culture and design can be incorporated into "Everyday Design," which refers to the items we interact with or encounter daily. Through making proposals, primary/secondary research, observation, and analysis of data collected, I gained a deeper understanding of both 'Everyday Design' and Japanese design. I learnt so much from our research, such as why many Japanese patterns have nature elements in it. Japanese design seamlessly blends natural elements into daily life, reflecting the surrounding environment. This approach is especially evident in Japanese clothing, such as the Yukata, and other design forms, showcasing how the Japanese view and respect nature. By doing so, they infuse meaning and value into their everyday experiences. I’ve also discovered about the many values in a Yukata have which I did not know of before.

There was alot of ideating and thinking too in this group project. I had fun during the site study where I got to see Japanese everyday item, clothings and Yukata in real life, as well as observing the colours and patterns on it. Furthermore, doing the google form survey has helped my group alot especially since we had to know what the public would want from our item, such as y2k designs, more modern styles implemented. I’ve also learnt many things during the video editing for our TikTok video.

To conclude, over the past seven weeks, I've learned a great deal about myself. I've realised that humans assign meaning to nature, as seen in Japanese design patterns that incorporate elements like sea waves, cherry blossoms, clouds, and fish. These symbols carry significance and are regularly featured on clothing, adding layers of interpretation to everyday life. One of the biggest shifts for me was gaining a deeper appreciation for 'Everyday Design.' I've become more attentive to the thoughtful details in the designs around me, recognizing that each one carries meaning and serves a purpose. Even though this Intercultural Design module was a little difficult, it has been a truly enjoyable module, and I am happy about our group’s final outcome as we worked really hard together. I hope to use all the knowledge from this module in my other areas of study in the future.


 GROUP REFLECTION: 


 What we have learned: 

At the start of this project, our knowledge of Japanese design was mostly surface-level, but as we went on most of us discovered new things we didn't know before such as what Japanese patterns symbolize and discovering that a Yukata has an inner hidden pocket in its sleeves. Through our research and analysis, we discovered the profound meaning behind these designs. We learned how each Japanese pattern has a meaning to it. Understanding these cultural narratives allowed us to see design as a form of storytelling rather than just decoration. We learnt many values in Japanese culture. Moreover, this project also challenged us to think critically about the intersection of culture and contemporary everyday design. It has allowed us to explore how cultural aesthetics can seamlessly blend into everyday functional design while maintaining authenticity and meaning.

Through primary & secondary researches, we delved into the history and significance of Japanese patterns, understanding their symbolism, traditional uses, and evolution. We also had a fun trip visiting Japanese shops and observing real-life applications of these patterns. By analyzing textures, materials, and the way patterns were integrated into products, we gained a deeper understanding. These visits helped us bridge the gap between theoretical research and practical design application, shaping our final concept in a more informed and culturally respectful way. Japanese patterns are not just decorative elements, they carry historical and emotional significance. By integrating them into an adaptable fashion item, we aimed to honor their cultural roots while making them accessible for everyday use.


 Group Experience & Challenges: 

Collaboration played a crucial role throughout this project. Each of us contributed unique perspectives through research, design execution, sketches or analysis. We had many group meetings to discuss our research, plans, & ideas. Throughout this entire project we were given creative freedom. We did everything together which was really helpful in making the progress faster. We realise that combining our different and new ideas together as a group help create a better outcome. We had fun during our site visits, meetings and filming the videos.

We navigated challenges since Japanese patterns hold deep historical and symbolic meanings, we had to carefully research their meanings & significance to avoid misrepresentation. Another challenge was balancing tradition with modern functionality. We wanted to preserve the essence of Japanese design while making it adaptable for everyday use. Additionally, conducting primary research required effort and coordination. Filtering through all our research, data collections and observations was a complex process. We also had to merge our different ideas and perspectives into a cohesive concept. However, these obstacles strengthened our teamwork and problem-solving skills. This project was a journey of personal and collective growth. We learned to be more observant, to ask critical questions, and to analyze design beyond aesthetics, considering its historical, cultural, and functional aspects. Other than that we had fun making the video and learnt some new editing tools to make our TikTok videos.


 Conclusion 

To conclude, this project was a transformative experience that went beyond simply designing a product. It taught us the importance of cultural research, observations, ethical design, and teamwork. The challenges we faced pushed us to think critically, collaborate effectively, and develop a more thoughtful and respectful approach to intercultural design. By combining Japanese cultural aesthetics with practical & multifunctional everyday design, we aimed to create a product that not only looks stylish and multifunctional, but also carries meaning. This project has broadened our perspectives on global design influences and reinforced the idea that design is a bridge between tradition and innovation. Moving forward, we will take these lessons with us, applying them to future projects with a deeper awareness of cultural significance and design impact.

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Our Google Drive Link Compilation of All Works: 

https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1LCHOM96OgvsazQU80F-vYSTEcsANXed5?usp=sharing



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