Back in 2018, Rou Jiao, an innovative designer, embarked on an eye-opening journey in the realm of card design. Entrusted with the task of weaving Chinese cultural elements into her work, she initiated her landmark project, Bad Print. This endeavour was an homage to history and a reflection of personal memories, drawing inspiration from ancient printing materials from the Shanghai era of the Republic of China. Jiao’s vision was deeply anchored in her fond childhood memories, especially her affection for the Riso prints that coloured her early years.
Jiao’s approach to the design of the playing cards demonstrates a blend of systematic precision and creative flair, setting new standards within the industry. She meticulously dissected the design process into clear, thoughtful segments, each deeply infused with the essence of culture and aesthetic innovation. Her dedication shines through in the face cards, which embody the spirit of the entire deck, seamlessly integrating traditional themes with contemporary design principles.
However, Jiao also encountered some challenges in the process, particularly in mastering the nuances of Riso printing, a technique that straddles the line between craft and art. Her initial steps, marked by a basic understanding of colour layering and transparency, became pivotal learning moments. Through a cycle of trial and error, Jiao went beyond basic techniques, pushing the boundaries of traditional printing methods.
A defining moment in Jiao’s artistic journey was acquiring a specialised set of Riso print brushes for Procreate, which significantly impacted her project. This new toolkit allowed her to delve deeper into the mechanics of Riso printing, leading to a series of innovations in her use of colour and ink wetness, significantly enhancing the authenticity and allure of her designs.
Bad Print is not only a visually striking deck of cards, but also showcases Jiao’s respect for culture and exploration of printing innovation. The project reflects her profound understanding of blending tradition with innovation, and also highlights her unique perspective and relentless effort as a designer.
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