Memories of Qilin #724
Memories of Qilin is an extraordinary generative series released by Emily Xie that explores the notion of deep folklore and tradition. Aesthetically the project is heavily inspired by traditional East Asian art evoking mythological themes of dragons, phoenixes, flowers, and mountains. Additionally, the digital motion and fluidity is inspired by the region’s classical paintings while the compositional forms, colors, and patterns are reminiscent of Ukiyo-e woodblock prints. The series incorporates of a variety of technical programming skills such as noise fields, masking, geometric designs, image processing, and a simple physics engine. Memories of Qilin #724 includes the “Dragon Dance” palette which is directly inspired by the historic form of traditional Chinese dance often seen during festive celebrations. The palette contains the often seen green and red colors used in the construction of the crafted dragons, symbolizing great harvests and excitement respectively.
Memories of Qilin is inspired by traditional East Asian art. It channels the sense of movement and fluidity found in classical Chinese brushwork, while drawing from the colors, patterns, and forms of ukiyo-e woodblock prints.
The series explores elements of folklore, evoking the mythological imagery of dragons, phoenixes, flowers, and mountains. The title references a fabled chimerical beast found throughout East Asian mythology (while the qilin is its Chinese name, it is also known in Korea as the girin and Japan as the kirin) that represents prosperity and luck.
Viewers are invited to interpret elusive forms that verge on representation. As with the stories passed on through generations, each piece is imagined, organic, and ever-in-flux.