Beyond the Motif

During my cultural fieldwork in Liangshan, I discovered the richness of Yi symbolic patterns. These traditional motifs—rooted in animals, plants, nature, and spiritual beliefs—embody the Yi people’s values, blessings, and ways of life. Each design goes beyond decoration, serving as a visual language that preserves cultural identity and conveys emotional meaning.
At an intangible cultural heritage lacquerware studio, I learned to paint with natural lacquer tree pigment. The Yi people’s signature palette—black, red, and yellow—carries profound symbolism: black represents the earth and dignity; red stands for fire, vitality, and courage; and yellow signifies harvest, light, and hope. Using these three colors, I created my own modernized pattern design for a lacquerware bowl, blending traditional symbolism with contemporary art sensibility.
Later, at the Yi fashion brand Chinayi, I observed how traditional clothing holds deep emotional value for Yi women—it is not merely attire but a heritage passed from mother to daughter. Yet today, these garments are mostly worn only on special occasions. Inspired by bridge tradition and modern lifestyle, I designed yoga and activewear pieces incorporating Yi motifs.
My first design followed the traditional palette for authenticity, while the revised version introduced blue in place of red, forming a black–blue–yellow scheme. This update adds freshness and energy, balancing cultural resonance with a modern sportswear aesthetic.