Shih Ting Ling's Artful Advocacy in Toy Design

Blending Cultural Heritage with Modern Playfulness

Shih Ting Ling's Hedgehog series, a collaboration with the National Palace Museum, stands as a testament to the power of design in fostering empathy and promoting societal change. By incorporating elements of traditional Chinese artifacts into contemporary toy design, the series not only preserves cultural heritage but also serves as a beacon of awareness for autism and environmental issues. The use of jadeite cabbage and blue and white porcelain artifacts in the toys' design is a nod to the rich history housed within the National Palace Museum, while also engaging with the pressing concerns of the modern world.

The technical prowess of the series is evident in its use of PU resin and PVC enamel to achieve a porcelain-like finish, a feat that pays homage to the delicate artistry of ancient Chinese ceramics. The Jadeite Cabbage Hedgehogs and Blue and White Porcelain Hedgehogs are particularly notable for their luminescent and classical elegance, respectively. The SU Zombie Alpha and Kakigoori Kuma further expand the collection's narrative, addressing food waste and global warming through their innovative designs.

Each piece in the series is meticulously crafted, with the Jadeite Hedgehogs and Porcelain Hedgehogs showcasing fine painting on single molds, and the SU Zombie Alpha utilizing lacquer techniques to depict fish flesh. The Kakigoori Kuma, with its transparent vinyl sprayed white, achieves a porcelain texture that is both playful and elegant. These specifications not only highlight Shih Ting Ling's commitment to craftsmanship but also the series' dedication to authenticity and quality.

The Hedgehog series is more than just a collection of toys; it is an interactive platform that symbolizes various societal themes. The autism-themed hedgehog forms represent self-protection and encourage inner strength, while the Ming Xuande bowl-inspired designs advocate for autism awareness. The sushi-inspired zombie design and polar bear character of the SU Zombie Alpha and Kakigoori Kuma, respectively, bring attention to the pressing issues of food waste and environmental degradation.

Developed in Taichung, Taiwan, the series underwent a rigorous design process from June to October 2022. The research involved in creating these toys was extensive, with a focus on accurately representing the museum's artifacts and testing various painting techniques to ensure the toys' historical fidelity. The design team, led by Shih Ting Ling and including Zih Xuan Jiang and Yun Ju Tseng, overcame significant challenges to deliver a product that is both a work of art and a conversation starter.

The Hedgehog series by Shih Ting Ling, honored with a Silver A' Design Award, is a remarkable example of how design can intersect with cultural preservation and social commentary. By infusing traditional Chinese art with contemporary issues, the series not only celebrates the beauty of the past but also inspires a collective effort towards a sustainable and empathetic future. The toys, through their engaging design and underlying messages, invite users to reflect on the importance of heritage and the role each individual plays in shaping a better world.