"Tree of Life" by Steffi K. from singapore
designer's own words:
The “Tree of Life” by Steffi K. (Stephanie Kwok)
I am a glass artist. The image I am utilizing for the design of the kimonos is a photograph of one my engraved glass artwork titled the “Tree of Life”. Together with inspiration from tradition and history (especially of Asian crafts), I hope that incorporating designs emanating from another craft (in this case, glass engraving) can give rise to images/motifs that are unique and refreshing for kimono designs.
In the five kimono designs submitted, the idea of pressing the golden-coloured motif/image against a black background reminds one of the beautiful lacquer ware tradition practised in Japan and other parts of Asia; and the positioning of the motifs such as only on the sleeves and back of the kimono was inspired by the ancient Chinese emperors' robes. Designs #1 to 3 is a play on the size, repetition and positioning of the motif; while Designs #4 and 5 also involves the distortion of the image.
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Note : This photographic image of the “Tree of Life” (golden-coloured) has been used in my portfolio, whilst a multi-coloured version (not submitted here) was used in my namecard and my solo exhibition poster in 2012.
The “Tree of Life” motif – photographic image of glass engraving by Steffi K. (Stephanie Kwok) [glass engraving also by Steffi K.]
“Tree of Life” motif on kimono (Design #1)
“Tree of Life” motif on kimono (Design #2)
“Tree of Life” motif on kimono (Design #3)
“Tree of Life” motif on kimono (Design #4)
“Tree of Life” motif on kimono (Design #5)