Shapeshifting Cat: A Lithographic Journey into the Unknown

Designer Ayane Sato's Award-Winning Artistic Exploration of Childhood, Adventure, and Big Cats

Ayane Sato's love for big cats and adventure served as the primary inspiration for the "Shapeshifting Cat" series. The illustrations depict a brother and sister embarking on an adventure in an unknown world, guided by a shapeshifting cat. The world within these illustrations is an extension of everyday life, reflecting its imperfections and challenges.

The uniqueness of the "Shapeshifting Cat" series lies in its storytelling approach and the delicate finesse of its lines. Each illustration is a chapter in an unfolding narrative, inviting viewers to engage their senses and imagination. The strength of these designs is evident in the intricate details and the quality of the print itself.

The illustrations were created using an aluminum plate, with images drawn directly onto the printing element using specialized pencils. Each print measures 110mm x 160mm or 160mm x 110mm, depending on the image. The lithographic technique allows for a high level of detail and a unique aesthetic appeal.

Creating the "Shapeshifting Cat" series was a process that spanned from March to September 2017. The project was selected and displayed at the Bologna Children's Book Fair in 2018. The biggest challenge Sato faced was capturing the essence of a cat in a way that was ambiguous, perfect, and extremely cute, a challenge that was met with success as evidenced in the final illustrations.

The "Shapeshifting Cat" series was awarded the Silver A' Graphics, Illustration and Visual Communication Design Award in 2019. This prestigious award recognizes top-of-the-line, creative, and professionally remarkable designs that illustrate outstanding expertise and innovation. Ayane Sato's lithographic series certainly fits this description, showcasing a remarkable level of excellence and introducing positive feelings, amazement, and wonder.

In conclusion, Ayane Sato's "Shapeshifting Cat" series is a testament to the power of art to tell stories, evoke emotions, and transport viewers to new worlds. Through her careful research, technical skill, and creative vision, Sato has created a collection of prints that is not only visually stunning but also deeply engaging and emotionally resonant.