The Wishful Thinking: A Cultural Odyssey in Gifting

Guo Lin's Gift Box Merges Tradition with Modern Elegance

Guo Lin's latest creation, "The Wishful Thinking," is not merely a gift box but a vessel of cultural narrative and auspicious symbolism. Each element within this collection—a notebook, pen, bookmark, and USB flash drive—is infused with a specific wish for the future, from prosperity to protection. The gift box serves as a cultural envoy, promoting the rich heritage of the Hezhe nation through modern artifacts.

The design's standout feature is the notebook, adorned with a Hezhe pattern and a fish skin inlay metal clasp—a nod to the Hezhe's exquisite fish skin artistry. The pen, carved with scenes from the Imakan chant, embodies the Hezhe's resilience, while the USB flash drive's red and gold palette symbolizes luck and wealth. The Hezhe Fish Bookmark, with its streamlined brass form, epitomizes elegance and the cultural significance of fish to the Hezhe people.

Guo Lin's commitment to sustainability is evident in the packaging choices—recyclable seaweed paper, virgin pulp paper, and plant-extract inks. The design's minimalist approach not only emphasizes the products' beauty but also aligns with eco-friendly practices. The compact packaging further reduces environmental impact, reflecting a deep understanding of responsible design.

With dimensions of 140mm by 140mm by 45mm, "The Wishful Thinking" gift box is a compact treasure trove of cultural expression. The design team, led by Lin Guo, has meticulously crafted each product to function as a bearer of good will, while also serving as a functional lifestyle accessory.

Developed in China between 2022 and 2023, the project represents a significant research endeavor into Hezhe culture. The challenge lay in seamlessly integrating cultural elements with everyday items to create a visually stunning and culturally rich gift box. The result is a testament to the design team's dedication and creative prowess.

Lin Guo's "The Wishful Thinking" has been recognized with the Bronze A' Design Award in 2024, a testament to its design excellence and cultural significance. This accolade underscores the project's successful fusion of art, design, and technology, contributing to the enrichment of life and the celebration of cultural diversity.