A combining of traditional Chinese motif from architecture with modern fashion, while taking strong influence from Punk culture, thus creating a futuristic, cyberpunk imagining of a Chinese Renaissance. In a way, identities are all intricate pieces of architecture, built up piece by piece over years, going through countless refurbishing to our heart’s desire, taking inspiration from different trends and styles, in order to best represent and express our identity. The modern world is no longer homogeneous in culture; we are exposed to cultural elements and trends from faraway places and we may adopt their values as part of ourselves. I had wanted to create a sense of cultural hybridity that reflected the 2nd generation Chinese and “3rd” culture kids (thus the number 2.5).
The work is also a rebellion against the conservative nature of Chinese society. Punk culture was created to set people free from the shackles of societal standards of gender, sexuality and identity, to encourage pure self-expression. Radical styles, body modifications…all of these elements are a statement of their power over their own bodies and identities, instead of the established. The borrowing of the underground punk style gives the figure strength, makes a strong statement of who they are, that cannot be ignored.
The work is also a rebellion against the conservative nature of Chinese society. Punk culture was created to set people free from the shackles of societal standards of gender, sexuality and identity, to encourage pure self-expression. Radical styles, body modifications…all of these elements are a statement of their power over their own bodies and identities, instead of the established. The borrowing of the underground punk style gives the figure strength, makes a strong statement of who they are, that cannot be ignored.