Year of the Dog Commemorative Tickets

Packaging design that celebrates the Chinese New Year

The design of the Year of the Dog Commemorative Tickets draws inspiration from the ancient technique of woodcut printmaking. The image of Taiwanese dogs is created using this technique, with the dogs symmetrically encompassing ancient coins that represent wealth. This reinterpretation of the ancient proverb "the wealth comes with a dog" captures the essence of the design.

The reverse side of the tickets features a depiction of a round table, symbolizing family reunion. In Chinese tradition, the round table is where the family sits and dines together, representing unity and togetherness. This design element not only reflects the traditional culture but also conveys the virtue of family values.

What sets the Year of the Dog Commemorative Tickets apart is its focus on the Chinese New Year and its connection to the theme of wealth. This limited edition product is sold by Taipei MRT every year, making it a highly sought-after collectible. The packaging design itself is meant to convey the idea of "bringing in wealth." When the pack is opened, the central structure pushes the red pockets out, symbolizing the arrival of wealth.

The patterns used in the design originate from the Chinese traditional craft of "Ruyi," which represents auspicious signs. These patterns add a touch of elegance and cater to the theme of the new year. The technical specifications of the packaging include laminated 6-in-1 construction, hot stamping foil, transparent ink, embossing, and gluing, all meticulously crafted by hand.

The Year of the Dog Commemorative Tickets not only serve as a functional item but also as a collectible piece of art. The packaging design is reusable and made from environmentally friendly materials, emphasizing the importance of sustainability.

This project was a collaboration between Design Director/Designer I Chan Su, Product Director/Designer Yi Gu, and Printing by Da Wei You. It started in December 2017 and the tickets were sold at two stations in Taipei on February 3, 2018. The limited edition of 1,000 sets was priced at TWD 300 and mainly targeted the general public for collection and MRT usage.

The Year of the Dog Commemorative Tickets received the Bronze A' Design Award in 2018. This prestigious award recognizes designs that exhibit creativity, resourcefulness, and technical skills, contributing to quality of life improvements. The design's incorporation of traditional Chinese culture and symbolism, along with its innovative packaging design, makes it a standout piece of art and a true celebration of the Chinese New Year.