Handmade shadow play
Teammate：Tianyu Wu， Yujia Wang，Yiting Wang
This project is a true-story adaptation presented as a meaningful expression of Interactive Arts & Technology. Inspired by a story set in the 1980s, we chose to reflect that era through the visual language of traditional Chinese shadow puppetry.
My Role:
Created all hand-drawn visuals and handcrafted puppets
Led visual direction and style consistency
Supported staging, lighting, and camera setup for storytelling impact
Echoes of the Past
Project Description：By blending handcrafted techniques with modern staging methods, we addressed the limitations of conventional shadow play—such as static scenes—by introducing layered compositions, scene transitions, and enhanced motion design. This not only preserved the cultural essence of the medium but also expanded its expressive range in a contemporary context.
Medium: Hand-drawn Illustration, 2D Animation, Physical Installation
Tools Used:
– Procreate (Sketching, Frame Design,Animation)
– After Effects ( Compositing)
– Cardstock, Plastic Sheet, Bamboo Stick, Scissors, Utility Knife, Hole Puncher
– Projector (Display)
My design process starts with outlining the figures on the iPad using Procreate, focusing on highlights to make them more vivid. Then, I draw the characters. For the main character, I used plastic plates for a sturdy yet movable base, connecting the joints with rivets. For static characters and objects, I chose cardboard, facing challenges with cutting and selecting the right rivets to allow free movement of the joints.
