Timeline
Apr 2023 - Jun 2024
Programs Used
After Effects & Procreate
Luminous Dreams
About the Project
Luminous Dreams, also called Shangyuan is inspired by the traditional Chinese festival, the Lantern Festival. This animation brings to life the vibrant customs and rich history of the festival night, featuring activities like releasing fish lanterns, solving lantern riddles, lighting fireworks, and savouring tangyuan.
By following the journey of tangtang, a character designed after the traditional sweet rice dumpling, viewers are invited to experience the cultural significance of these traditions and gain a deeper appreciation for Chinese heritage
2D Animation
Inspiration and Cultural Significance
The Lantern Festival, or Shangyuan Festival, marks the end of the Chinese New Year celebrations and has been celebrated for over 2,000 years. This animation was inspired by the festival’s cultural vibrancy and aims to celebrate its timeless traditions through a visually engaging narrative.
The festival is rich in cultural symbolism, from works to the symbolic act of eating tangyuan (representing family unity) and the joyous fire. The animation seeks to honour these traditions and highlight their historical evolution.
Character Design
The main character, tangtang, is designed to resemble a traditional tangyuan, a glutinous rice ball eaten during the Lantern Festival. The design of tangtang features a round, soft, and inviting appearance, with subtle textures reminiscent of a real tangyuan.
Design Element
Traditional motifs
Cultural symbolism
Modern appeal
Expressions
Joy & wonder
Curiosity
Playfulness
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