PROJECT
LEGEND OF PINYA
CATEGORY
PRINT DESIGN, ILLUSTRATION
PROJECT DETAILS
Legend of Pinya was inspired by the fact that there is a lack of cultural representation of immigrants in New Zealand in children’s books. I was motivated to illustrate a children’s storybook series that explores common folktales and mythologies from different countries, helping young children to understand their identity and cultural roots.
I focused on researching Filipino history and traditional motifs, to ensure that each page authentically depicts the culture; this helped inform my decisions regarding the use of Yakan tribal patterns and the traditional Baro't saya attire for the character’s costumes. The text also includes Tagalog translations to encourage the use of the language. I used a Filipino-made typeface that is inspired by the witty hand-painted signs seen all across Manila’s street signage. These elements celebrate the uniqueness of Filipino culture and comfort younger Filipinos with familiar scenes from everyday life in the Philippines.
Retelling this alamat through the use of storybooks is essential in allowing Filipino children to feel valued and represented; empowering them to be proud of their identity and culture from a young age.
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