Chadao: A Book Inspired by the Eight Teachings of the TAETEA System

A Modern Design Celebration of Chinese Chadao

The Eight Teachings of the TAETEA System serve as the foundation for Chadao's design inspiration. These teachings are not only a set of elegant and procedural skills to brew tea but also self-motivating methods of self-introspection in Chadao studies. The book takes readers on an immersive journey through eight interrelated, consecutive arrays of moves, including cleansing, opening, awakening, measuring, cultivating, experiencing, sharing, and finishing.

What sets Chadao apart is its meticulous attention to detail. The sheath and the color of the hardcover are carefully chosen to create a transparent sense of maroon, reminiscent of the color of Pu'er tea, and to reflect the texture of the tea itself. The font design and layout are intentionally left blank, allowing for a sense of change and interpretation. Modern design language is employed to showcase the allure of Chinese Chadao, with the chapter design kept simple and clear. The illustrations and texts are harmoniously arranged and designed to complement each other, enhancing the overall reading experience.

Chadao is brought to life through a combination of traditional craftsmanship and modern technology. The book sheath is made of transparent acrylic, providing a touch of sacred ritual as readers carefully take out and open the book. The process involves four-color printing, bronzing, creasing, and computer-aided design for the hand-drawn style illustrations.

Measuring at 170mm x 240mm x 23mm, Chadao is a compact and visually captivating piece of art that captures the essence of Chinese tea culture. Whether the book is open or closed, readers are treated to a particular three-dimensional effect that adds to the joy of reading.

Chadao was created during the month of January 2018 in Beijing, China. The design project involved extensive research to ensure an authentic representation of Chinese Pu'er tea and the tea ceremony. The challenge lay in expressing the philosophical thoughts behind the Chinese tea ceremony and the tea culture, while also catering to the contemporary fascination with learning and experiencing Chinese tea traditions.

Chadao has been recognized for its outstanding design with the Bronze A' Design Award in the Print and Published Media Design category in 2021. This prestigious accolade is bestowed upon designs that demonstrate creativity, resourcefulness, and a commitment to improving the quality of life through art, science, design, and technology.

Chadao is a testament to the enduring charm of Chinese Pu'er tea and the art of Chadao. Through its thoughtful design and meticulous execution, it invites readers to embark on a journey of self-reflection and appreciation for the rich heritage of Chinese tea culture.