The character Ronin, created by designer Dmitry Kudinov, embodies the concept of a man without a master. Inspired by the samurai outlaw ronin, this character represents the author's personal qualities and values. The philosophy of self-development and continuous learning is at the core of this design, emphasizing the importance of immersing oneself in new experiences to unlock new opportunities for growth.
The Ronin design stands out with its formidable and intimidating presence. The character emerges from a dark background, starting with the eyes, symbolizing the mask that hides the emotions of the person behind it. The armor, mask, and helmet, besides their protective functions, serve as a deterrent and signify belonging to a certain clan or caste. In the case of the samurai ronin, their black armor without any identifying marks emphasized their lack of affiliation with any master.
The realization of the Ronin design involved silkscreen printing with tinted lacquer on high-quality paper. The meticulous process ensured that every detail, from the choice of paper to the final print quality, met the designer's standards. The limited edition of 14 copies, each hand-numbered and signed, adds to the exclusivity and collectibility of this artwork.
Throughout the realization process, the collaboration between Dmitry Kudinov, illustrator, and Lidiia Averina, producer, was crucial. The production was carried out by Print Screen Studio, ensuring the highest quality standards were met. The prints were realized at the Crystal Cluster in Moscow, adding a touch of local craftsmanship to the design.
The Ronin design project began in 2014, with the illustration being implemented in a limited-edition print format in collaboration with Screen Print Studio. The entire realization process took about a month of dedicated work, with attention to every detail. From the conceptualization to the execution, this design represents the culmination of Dmitry Kudinov's creative vision.
The Ronin design is not just a visually striking artwork; it is a result of extensive research and introspection. The designer's exploration of personal values and their impact on professional growth formed the foundation for this design. The slogan "Deeper Roots Stronger Branches" encapsulates the worldview and professional approach of Dmitry Kudinov, emphasizing the importance of personal and professional development.
This unique silkscreen print design has garnered recognition in the design community. It was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Graphics, Illustration, and Visual Communication Design category in 2022. This prestigious award recognizes designs that exhibit strong technical and creative skills while contributing to quality of life improvements.
The Ronin design, with its captivating visuals and underlying philosophy, serves as a reminder of the power of self-development and the importance of embracing new experiences. It is a testament to the creative prowess of Dmitry Kudinov and his ability to translate personal values into visually stunning artwork.
Project Designers: Dmitry Kudinov
Image Credits: Image #1: Photographer Rafael RAF, Ronin In MIO #1, 2021.
Image #2: Photographer Rafael RAF, Ronin In MIO #2, 2021.
Image #3: Photographer Rafael RAF, Ronin In MIO #3, 2021.
Image #4: Photographer Vanya Volkov, Ronin WIP #1, 2021.
Image #5: Photographer Vanya Volkov, Ronin WIP #2, 2021.
Video Credits: Operator & Production Vanya Volkov, Scene Screen Print Studio with Andrey Pronin in cast.
Project Team Members: Illustrator: Dmitry Kudinov
Producer: Lidiia Averina
Production: Print Screen Studio
Project Name: Ronin
Project Client: Dmitry Kudinov