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In a tutorial discussion of the possibilities of my project with Professor Gareth Barnett, I got the inspiration of turning the making process as the outcome as well. This approach seemed promising in effectively conveying my intentions. So, I began capturing the process through photography and video.

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**Shortlisted for the 2021 British Book Design and Production Awards for the Best Jacket / Cover Design**For years illustration has lacked a strong critical his…

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"Research conducted and performed through the act of illustration practice. This might involve: creative experimentation across materials, tools and processes; development work exploring different and/or innovative ways in which illustration may be performed and/or operate..." (p14, Gannon & Fauchon)

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Background:

The project was initially inspired by my own experience of living with Ichthyosis, a uncommon skin condition that results in dry and scaly skin; as well as my profession as a tattoo artist which involves constant interaction with human skin. Through both, I have developed a deep appreciation for the diverse textures and nuances of skin. This dual perspective—both as someone living with a skin condition and as an artist intimately engaged with human skin—became the driving force behind this project.

What:

This project explores the human skin. With a keen focus on the complexities of skin conditions, it investigates and reproduces the intricacies of diverse skins conditions, transcending societal standards of beauty.

Reseach Methods:

Auto-ethnography was used in the initial stages to record my personal journey which helped the project to "reproduce" the moments of living with a condition.

"Illustration throughout the process" was consistently integrated into the entire project, involving material and medium tests, as well as focussing and documenting the creative process.

Outcomes:

While the first serious of the outcomes investigate and reproduce the skin conditions, the second serious highlighted the feelings and challenges experienced by individuals dealing with those conditions.

Material:

Light clay was chosen for its unique quality of randomness when combining two blocks, which resonated with the content. The abstract and light-colored visual language employed in the artwork served as a means to convey the intricate yet delicate nature of the human skin.

Purpose:

The project aims to encourages the viewers to ponder the rich tapestry of physical appearances, challenging conventional ideas of normality and embracing the nuances of “abnormality”.

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The purpose of the shop extends beyond translating my illustration practice into tangible outcomes; it's also dedicated to raising public awareness. Therefore, I have decided to contribute all the proceeds earned from the shop to the British Skin Foundation. It is the only UK charity that raises money to fund research into all types of skin diseases, including skin cancer.

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Bosschaert, Monet or Stubbs? Take your pick from our wide range of prints, books, accessories, homeware and more.

Showing 1-12 of 302 products

Each art lover will have their own preferences when it comes to styles and movements. Others will have a particular love for certain famous artists' artworks. If there is a specific artist or artists that you are passionate about, then our selection of artist merchandise at the National Gallery online shop can help you find products and gifts that can help you celebrate an artist in style.

Our collection of famous artist merchandise is broad, with a variety of product types featuring paintings from different countries, eras and movements.

It is easy to jump between artist categories and find a collection of products influenced by your favourite. Whether you want Canaletto, Degas or Gainsborough gifts and prints, or prefer the works of Monet, Renoir or Turner, you can find a collection of products to your liking. There are also pages dedicated to the likes of Vincent van Gogh, Leonardo da Vinci and Artemisia available, so take the time to find your preferred choice. If you are seeking a particular

custom print or poster of works by your favourite artist, then our artist range collection has ample options for you to choose from. There are plenty more types of product available, including apparel, books, bags, home accessories and stationery.
Celebrate famous artists and their artworks with a gift from the National Gallery shop and bring something creative into your life.

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The artwork of famous artists resonates like nothing else. Browse through the National Gallery shop's collection of artist merchandise and find something special.

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Discover wearable art with our collection of art-inspired shoppers. Carry your essentials in style with this unique accessory which is sure to be a conversation starter.

Each shopper is custom made and will be dispatched within four to six weeks.

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JavaScript seems to be disabled in your browser. For the best experience on our site, be sure to turn on Javascript in your browser. Discover wearable art with our collection of art-inspired shoppers. Carry your essentials in style with this unique accessory which is sure to be a conversation starter.

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1. Appear offline (no date) Appear Offline. Available at: https://appear-offline.com/ (Accessed: 12 November 2023).

2. Essen, T. van (no date) Tamsin van Essen, MEDICAL HEIRLOOMS. Available at: https://www.tamsinvanessen.com/#/medical-heirlooms/ (Accessed: 28 May 2023).

3. Famous artists artwork & merchandise: National Gallery Shop (no date) National Gallery. Available at: https://shop.nationalgallery.org.uk/artist-ranges.html (Accessed: 12 November 2023).

4. Gannon , R. and Fauchon, M. (no date) Illustration research methods. Available at: https://www.bloomsbury.com/uk/illustration-research-methods-9781350051447/ (Accessed: 09 November 2023).

5. Intertapes(no date). Available at: https://intertapes.net/ (Accessed: 12 November 2023).

6. Marguerite Humeau ‘Meys’ white cube / bermondsey: (2023) Flash Art. Available at: https://flash---art.com/2023/04/marguerite-humeau/ (Accessed: 28 May 2023).

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In my personal project's store, I not only crafted jewelry but also curated a range of everyday merchandise items. I selected these objects because of their compact size, accessibility, and practicality in daily life. This choice aligns seamlessly with my concept, transitioning from the intangible to the tangible realm, allowing my ideas to become more touchable and accessible to a wider audience.

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Meet the most elegant, simple and powerful web-tool for designing websites, presentations, portfolios and all kinds of digital publications.

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The book "Illustration Research Method" defines illustration as more than just transforming textual information into visual infomation which is outcome-based—it emphasizes the process of translating. This perspective aligns perfectly with my personal approach to illustration. I came to understand the connection between myself and the skin, drawing inspiration for my project. Much like our course emphasizes in the first unit, it's about thinking through making.

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- Realized Outcomes of Major Project

- Reflective Journal (Padlet)

- AV Presentation (7-minute audiovisual presentation)

- Professional Portfolio (text and image PDF)

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I decided to create a website for my artworks and products because I believe it aligns perfectly with the project's objectives. By establishing an online presence, I can reach a wider audience and effectively communicate the essence of my project. This digital space also allows me to share the stories behind my creations, enhancing the viewers' understanding and connection with the product.

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is a one-man creative practice focused on typographic experiments and letterform exploration. Working at the intersection between art and design by exploring the boundaries of familiarity and abstraction.

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Vanguard Discard offers carefully curated collection of home objects and interior design services. Our multidisciplinary team comprised of architects, artists and interior designers share mutual love for unique pieces that go beyond the boundaries of furniture. Our focus is on obscure objects from great design names to independent craft.

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A creative project exploring simple, accessible and affordable designer products for the home.

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In response to commercializing certain aspects of the project, I crafted a series of jewelry, including necklaces and bracelets, using the same material as my project outcomes. The choice of jewelry was due to its close connection with the project's concept—they are worn on the skin, aligning with the project's theme. Keeping the group project's purpose in mind, I opted for simplicity and efficiency in the designs, ensuring they were easy to create and could be mass-produced.

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I selected the commerce group for my project because my project focus on skin issues, aiming to raise public awareness and offer support and confidence to those who are suffering. Incorporating elements from my project into everyday products is a great way to extend the project's purpose to a broader audience.

Moreover, I intend to contribute to the skin condition charity by donating all the proceeds earned from the shop I established. I find great significance in this gesture, as it resonates deeply with my values and beliefs.

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Design of the photos

Tutorial

Shop material prep

Poster making

Instagram promotion

References of the portfolio

Pics sorting

Office Hour

Card board making

10th Shop lauching day

Portfolio outlines

Design of the portfolio

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Problem:
After receiving feedbacks from both my peers and professors, I noticed that viewers often became confused about the project's theme upon their initial encounter with the artworks. Upon reflection, I realized that certain pieces didn't convey the intended message clearly, especially in the way I presented them during the work-in-progress show. This realization was contrary to my original objective.

Solving:
As all the elements of my art were derived from the skin, I began thinking the idea of "returning" the artwork back to the skin. I believed that the chemistry formed between the artwork and the skin could provide the audience with the necessary context for the work, sparking contemplation and deeper understanding.

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Problem and solving:

The second issue I encountered was that many people couldn't relate to my original topic because it was quite niche. And as my tattoo apprenticeship came to an end, I began working on clients and gained many tattooing experiences. One intriguing aspect I noticed was that nearly all my clients had "imperfections" on their skin—acne, moles, birthmarks, scars. Some of them lacked confidence due to these features. This realization inspired me to broaden my focus, aiming for a more genral approach so that a larger audience could relate to it.

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Tamsin van Essen

Who: Tamsin van Essen

What: The artist used the specially textured vase to communicate to the audience about the skin conditions.

Why: Similar to inherit a precious family heirloom like a vase, one may also inherit the tendency for conditions such as acne or ichthyosis. The ceramic work delves into the social stigmatization of diseases and challenges our modern preoccupation with flawlessness and physical beauty. (Essen, no date)

How: Connecting the relationship between the heirloom and skin conditions.

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In the color and style study, I researched Hilma Af Klint works as I was fasinated by the reduced abstract language as well as the light, pastal colors. She used circles, orbits, lines to express interconnectivity with all forms of life. I intended to apply a similar style in my work.

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Critical Position:
1. Investigator (document the reality, reveal the truth, reproduce events based on the information I gathered, relatively unbidased way to communicate to the world.)
2. Educator (inform, illuminate, explain, create a space for knowlegde exchange, make connections)

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I placed the tracing paper on my leg and captured the intricate textures of my skin. I drew a circle of eyes with different directions to represent the judgemental looks from people I've experienced.

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More textures in different area.

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A sketch about scratching.

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A sketch about textures using colored pencils and also about people's stare.

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I drew the second two sketches first, but they didn't evoke the emotional response I desired. Upon reflection, I realized that the main reason for this unsuccessful outcome was that I had drawn from my imagination instead of capturing the essence of reality, making them less relatable.

Therfore, I later used tracing paper to literally "trace" the texture of my skin. Although they were quick sketches but it turned out to be satisfied.  By tracing, it also matches my critical position as an investigator as well.

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In order to record the reality further more, I documented my condition and some of my daily routines using photography.

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As right now is spring, the skin on my lower leg shows reduced dryness due to the warmer weather. However, the presence of white flakes and the scaly pattern is still noticeable.

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The amount of moisturizer I used each time. I usually apply moistuizer two times a day, when after applied, I let it dry for about half an hour. It is the only way to keep my skin from flaky and ichyness.

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I constantly feels dry and ichy especially at night. These are the marks and scars resulted from my scratches.

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Among the photographs, the one featuring moisturizers achieved the most impactful result, naturally conveying a strong sense of narrative. It directly communicates the challenges faced when living with the condition to the audience. In contrast, the other photographs primarily focus on the condition itself, generating less narrative impact.

Improvements in the future:
1. Maybe include gestures (the way I scratch)
2. Don't do too closed up photographs

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For the group shop, I used printsocial to create these T-shirts and totebags. These are great starting points for me to think about how I can commercialize my project into actual products.

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Product 1: Abnormal Skin Sculpture T-shirt

Description: Layers of melting skin T-shirt in the Abnormal Skin Series by Jialu Gu.

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Product 2: Abnormal Skin Sculpture Tote Bag 1

Description: Skin with dripping lotion n the Abnormal Skin Series by Jialu Gu.

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Due to the strong visual connection between my skin condition and fish scales, I participated in a fish skin study that drew inspiration from the indigenous Hezhou community, one of the smallest ethnic groups in China. During the study, I learned the complete process of traditional fish skin coloring and molding techniques.