The Phoenix: A Captivating Poster Design by Te-Sian Shih

Combining Music, Art, and Enthusiasm

Te-Sian Shih, a talented designer, has created a visually stunning and captivating poster for the Taipei Music Academy and Festival. Inspired by the abstract nature of music, Shih aimed to convey the essence of the event through a combination of art, innovation, and enthusiasm.

The uniqueness of this design lies in its fusion of the violin, the phoenix, and the sea, all intertwined with the sonic waves of music. The smooth lines and vibrant colors evoke a sense of passion and energy, immersing viewers in the world of music.

Using Adobe Photoshop, Shih skillfully employed a blend mode group to create two distinct shapes - the violin with phoenix wings. By utilizing the multiply and color dodge functions, she achieved a harmonious blend of these elements. The background, resembling waves, adds depth and movement to the composition.

With technical specifications of 18cm width, 0cm depth, and 24cm height, Shih ensured that each line in the poster was thicker than 0.5mm to ensure optimal printing quality.

When interacting with the poster, viewers are immediately drawn to the combined image of the phoenix and violin. As their gaze follows the blue lines in the background, they discover the date, activity names, and sponsor information. Every element has been thoughtfully placed to create a logical and engaging visual experience.

The design project commenced in September 2020 and concluded in December 2020 in Taipei. Due to the pandemic, the exhibition of the poster took place in the United States in July 2021, showcasing the global reach and impact of this remarkable design.

Shih's research for this design delved into the transformative nature of Eastern music performance, with its flowing melodies and ethereal qualities. The central image, a combination of music waves and a violin shape, resembles a phoenix spreading its wings. The orange-colored waves represent the phoenix in flight, symbolizing the hard work and enthusiasm of musicians and staff involved in the event.

Creating a poster without relying on real images posed a creative challenge for Shih. In contrast to the previous year's design, which featured a real violin, she had to construct the entire image from scratch. However, her artistic prowess and innovative approach allowed her to overcome this obstacle and produce a visually striking result.

The Phoenix poster design by Te-Sian Shih has garnered well-deserved recognition. It was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in the Graphics, Illustration, and Visual Communication Design category in 2022. This prestigious accolade recognizes designs that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also practical, innovative, and aligned with professional and industrial standards.