Everything: A Unique Book Design Inspired by Chinese Culture

Combining Tradition and Innovation to Create a Captivating Reading Experience

With the rise of Chinese culture and national traditions in both commercial design and academia, Everything serves as a significant contribution to this cultural renaissance. The designers drew inspiration from ancient Chinese books and the deep-rooted research on media and book design. The result is a visually stunning and intellectually engaging piece of art.

What sets Everything apart is its unique approach to content and layout. The book revolves around the twelve earthly branches, which represent the cyclical nature of life and the philosophy of growth and change. Each page is meticulously designed, incorporating elements such as leaves, buds, flowers, and stones. Through a combination of reconstruction and contrast, the layout creates a dynamic and ever-evolving visual experience.

The binding process of Everything pays homage to the folding form of ancient Chinese books. Using wood, special paper, and hot stamping materials, the designers have created a book that not only captures the essence of traditional bookbinding but also offers a tactile and immersive reading experience. The choice of materials and techniques adds to the overall artistry and collectivity of the design.

Technological innovation plays a crucial role in bringing Everything to life. Laser engraving, laser printing, creasing, and hot stamping are employed in the printing process, resulting in intricate details and a visually stunning final product. Hand-drawn graphics, texture art, and a high gray hue are used in the layout design, further enhancing the visual appeal and depth of the book.

Everything is not just a physical book; it is a versatile design that can be adapted for various mediums. Currently available for printing media, motion graphics, and installation art, the designers envision its future use in web pages, apps, and digital media. This adaptability ensures that the essence of Chinese culture and traditional philosophy can reach a wider audience.

The design process for Everything was not without its challenges. The designers faced the task of expressing the profound concepts of Chinese culture and traditional philosophy through bookbinding and layout design. However, through meticulous research and a deep understanding of the subject matter, they successfully captured the essence and spirit of Chinese tradition in a visually captivating manner.

Everything was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in the Print and Published Media Design category in 2020. This prestigious accolade recognizes the design's excellence in meeting professional and industrial requirements. The integration of industry best practices, innovative techniques, and a commitment to creating a better world through design sets Everything apart as a truly exceptional piece of art.

Everything is not just a book; it is a testament to the enduring power of traditional culture and the boundless possibilities of design. Na An and Huanyi Liu have created a masterpiece that seamlessly blends tradition and innovation, offering readers a captivating and immersive experience that transcends time and borders.