Ryujin: A Mythical Illustration Brought to Life

Designer Rom Joseph Pamintuan's Award-Winning Illustration Inspired by Japanese Mythology

Ryujin is a unique illustration that reimagines traditional Japanese dragon imagery. The design was created from scratch, with a keen focus on detail. The background features Japanese-inspired waves, a nod to the sea deity's domain, creating a minimal yet detailed design.

The creation of Ryujin involved a blend of modern technology and traditional artistic techniques. Initial sketches were made using Procreate on an iPad, followed by the application of vector linework, shading, and colors using Illustrator. The design was then finalized with Photoshop, demonstrating a seamless integration of various digital tools.

Printed on a range of merchandise, including t-shirts and greeting cards, Ryujin serves both fashion and functional purposes. The design's versatility allows it to be a stylish statement piece or a part of everyday attire. The illustration is printed on A3 size for t-shirts, A1 size for posters, and 85mm x 55mm for greeting cards.

The design process, which took place between August and September 2020 in Pampanga, Philippines, involved extensive research into Japanese culture and mythology. The challenge lay in capturing the power and significance of Ryujin, a task that required a deep understanding of the deity's historical context and the ability to translate that into a visually compelling design.

Ryujin's success is evident in its recognition at the A' Graphics, Illustration and Visual Communication Design Award in 2021, where it received a Silver award. This prestigious accolade is given to designs that demonstrate remarkable creativity, technical expertise, and innovation. Ryujin, with its unique blend of cultural inspiration and artistic skill, is a testament to the power of design to bring mythology to life.