INTO THE DESERT
Over time, observation and experience turn into memory with modifications/filtration/exaggeration. I think these inaccuracies personalizes observation and experience, for the ease of memorization, because our brain is not a computer, we forget all the time. I have always wanted to document vocations because each of the experiences on vocations is unique and unrepeatable. I started of collecting archive images about me and my fiance’s trip in Morocco. Morocco is very special for us because we spoke with one voice that our dream travel place was morocco. Then we made this vocation!This work reflects not only the data archive images that I documented vocation but also the memorable stories. The stories of meeting people from different cultures, traditions, and lifestyles.
There are two examples of the raw data I collected below.
Then I mapped out mindmap and moodboard.
At the stage #3, I tried to explore visual style. I set some constraint for me to create system. However, the graphic elements seem lost the looseness and energy of my raw data. It was a challenge for me to redefine how to tell my story while keeping the energy.
With bigger camera sensors, smaller camera lenses, larger hard disk, we are getting better in recording experiences, but it will never be the same as that exact moment. This is why I created such a non-organic container, similar to a computer, for my precious memory in Morocco. I decided to collaborate with my fiance that making a book by combining our reflections with the original images. We picked the images which are most resonate to us. Then presenting our reflections though drawing/writing/doodling, etc. The pages of the book are not bounded together. Each page is folded in the center. And images are bleed out of the inside pages, our reflections stand on the outside of the pages. The book is served in the Memory Deck.
Connection between my “memory deck” to my Morocco trip is presented in three layers. The painted color reflects the overall color tune of traditional Morocco buildings. The raw craftsmanship and imperfection of construction implies the natural environment in Sahara. The use of clay as the building material mimics the texture of Morocco artwork. Unlike a cardboard box, this “memory deck” is a lot heavier, solid, unique, representing my emphasized value on this special trip. When I was making the model, it was too sketchy and rough at the beginning. So I decided to remake another one by having only one solid sand color with a cloth on top to represent the environment and craftsmanship in Morocco.
I also tried to use vinyl cut for my final presentation. The final book should be set up with a kiosk iPad along side. Here is the link to the website:https://grafik.chenluodesign.net/
