Memories of Mukden: A Unique Blend of History and Design

Na An and Yiting Cui's Innovative Approach to Book Design

The inspiration for the project, titled "Memories of Mukden", came from several sources. The designers were driven by the need to preserve urban history and regional culture, and were inspired by the techniques used in ancient Chinese books. They also recognized the need for physical books to enhance their artistic and collectable value in the age of digital media. The project is a perfect blend of heritage, history, geography, and aesthetics.

What sets "Memories of Mukden" apart from other book designs is its focus on the city's history and regional culture. The book, which comes in eight volumes, each focusing on a different scenic spot in Mukden, is a tribute to the city's rich cultural heritage. The designers used traditional Chinese binding techniques and materials such as rice paper, copper, and brocade. The book's appearance is reminiscent of a palace lantern, symbolizing the illumination of historical memory.

The book was realized using a variety of materials and manufacturing processes, including laser printing, metalworking, indentation, and folding loading. The layout design features flat graphics, illustrations, and light gray tones, created using Adobe Illustrator and Adobe Photoshop. The book's interactive design, display, and assembly add to its appeal.

The designers faced several challenges during the project, including accurately expressing the book's form, binding method, material use, and content. They also had to skillfully combine modern elements with historical culture in the layout design. Despite these challenges, the designers were able to create a book that is not only a work of art but also a valuable resource for understanding the city's history and culture.

In conclusion, "Memories of Mukden" is a testament to Na An and Yiting Cui's innovative approach to book design. The project, which was completed in China in June 2020, is a perfect blend of history, culture, and design. It is a shining example of how design can be used to preserve and promote urban history and regional culture.