Money Talks: Illustrating the Ugliness of Officialdom

An Artistic Condemnation of Corruption and Social Injustice

The design concept of Money Talks by Chia-Liang Lin is a powerful visual representation of the dark side of officialdom. Inspired by real events and the prevalence of corruption in society, this series of illustrations aims to expose the ugliness and chaos that exist within the bureaucratic system.

The officialdom, often likened to a pool of deep and dirty water, is portrayed as a haunting presence, with hundreds of ghosts symbolizing the twisted and terrifying state of affairs. The design team behind Money Talks believes that these illustrations effectively capture the depraved social psychology that arises from the pursuit of power and personal gain.

Using Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator, Chia-Liang Lin and the design team meticulously crafted each illustration, balancing aesthetic appeal with the need to convey a powerful message. The result is a series of haunting images that leave a lasting impact on viewers.

Measuring 297mm in width and 420mm in height, each illustration is printed on 200gm paper, further enhancing the visual experience. The technical specifications ensure that the intricate details and symbolism are preserved, allowing viewers to fully immerse themselves in the artwork.

Money Talks has garnered widespread acclaim and positive feedback across various fields. The series has touched the hearts of many, serving as a reminder that these issues should not be forgotten. Through their artwork, Chia-Liang Lin and the design team aim to inspire change and encourage officials to govern with honesty, diligence, and a genuine concern for the people.

The creation of Money Talks took place between January and June 2020 in Ningbo, China. During this time, extensive research was conducted to understand the underlying issues of corruption and social injustice. The design team's desire to promote honesty and justice in modern officialdom is evident in every illustration.

One of the main challenges faced by the design team was effectively communicating their perspectives through visual means. Balancing aesthetics, expression, and symbolism required careful consideration and experimentation. However, their dedication and commitment resulted in a series of illustrations that effectively convey their message.

Money Talks integrates visual elements with symbolic representations to enhance the expressiveness of the artwork. By combining visuals and text, the central idea of each illustration is communicated clearly, providing viewers with a simple yet impactful visual experience.

The intellectual property and copyright for Money Talks belong to Chia-Liang Lin and the design team. Any unauthorized use or reproduction of the artwork is strictly prohibited.

In recognition of its exceptional design and powerful message, Money Talks was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in 2021. This prestigious award is given to designs that demonstrate innovation, practicality, and adherence to professional and industrial standards. Chia-Liang Lin's illustrations contribute to a better world by shedding light on the dark realities of officialdom.


Project Details and Credits

Project Designers: Chia-Liang Lin Xi-Ting Huang Sheng-Er Yu
Image Credits: Creative Director: CHIA-LIANG LIN Art Director: CHENG-YI YANG Designer: TUBINJIAN SHEN Illustrator: TUBINJIAN SHEN
Project Team Members: CHIA-LIANG LIN CHENG-YI YANG TUBINJIAN SHEN
Project Name: Money Talks
Project Client: Chia-Liang Lin Xi-Ting Huang Sheng-Er Yu


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