Illustration and Visual Narrative - Task 3

Aina Ahmed Aleem / 0355701

Illustration and Visual Narrative / Bachelor of Design (Honors) in Creative Media

---

TABLE OF CONTENT

1. Instructions
2. Process - Task 3
4. Feedback
5. Reflection

---

INSTRUCTIONS

---

PROCESS

I started by researching on the themes and finally landed on the theme 'Cultural Prosperity · Celebration: Traditional Cultural Innovation'. I decided on this topic because I felt it allowed me the most creative expression as I was inspired by my own country and its culture and traditions. I began by exploring cultural elements unique to the Maldives. I collected reference images featuring Maldivian dress, and symbolic motifs like floral patterns and bold textile designs. 

Maldivian textile design

Traditional Maldivian dress

Maldivian Art

Maldivian lacquer art

Inspired by local textiles and bold colors, I designed a stylized female figure wearing traditional attire as the central focus. The background features a geometric pattern inspired by Maldivian weaving, combining cultural elements with a modern, minimal graphic style.

Initial sketch

Chatgpt generated reference

FINAL ARTWORK

Instead of a literal celebration scene, I chose to represent cultural identity through fashion. Inspired by the bold colors and patterns often seen in Maldivian art and textiles, I decided to focus on a stylized female figure wearing traditional attire. I paired this with a background featuring Maldivian patterns to emphasize the richness of heritage. My goal was to create a clean, modern design that celebrates tradition in a contemporary and visually striking way.

'Rooted in Red' Final Artwork jpg

'Rooted in Red' A celebration of culture through simplicity and boldness; this illustration captures the quiet strength and beauty of a woman in traditional Maldivian attire. Set against a backdrop of rhythmic patterns inspired by local textiles, her presence feels both timeless and modern. The rich reds and golds speak of heritage, warmth, and identity, bringing tradition into a contemporary space meant to be worn, shared, and remembered.

FINAL ANIMATION MP4

LINK TO ANIMATION