unfold explores the concept of human connection through the intermingling of their auras – a physical manifestation of the entanglement of roots from Chinese diaspora in Southeast Asia. Unpacking the symbolism behind 蝴 hú’s “Knots of Eternity” collection, spotlighting Qixi Fest and their endeavour to preserve vanishing crafts.
things to unfold...
a journey to recall hú are you
hú are you love across lifetimes
an ode to eternal bonds not lost, but forgotten
one
what
does it
mean
to
be chinese?
5
recall a
journey
to
as we march on ahead, how much of who we are have we forsaken?
的 行 迹 召 回
路
The Chinese diaspora began in the late 19th century and extended into the early 20th century. “Sinkuh” migrants sought refuge from poverty, famine and war in China, while “Laokuh” or “Straits Chinese” arrived as English-educated migrants of mixed Malay heritage. By 1957, Singapore was home to around 1.4 million Chinese. With the rise of inter-ethnic adoption and inter-racial marriages, it was no longer black-and-white.The blending of ancient heritage with a modern national identity formed a hybrid culture and birthed the new Chinese identity. So what then does it truly mean to be Chinese?
two
寻 找
hú
a harmonious symphony of colours and grace, on a search for identity in this diverse space.
are
you
蝴 hú is the first character of the word “butterfly” in Chinese. It is a symbol of transformation and the fleeting nature of life, encompassing themes of hope, change and renewal in Chinese culture.The butterfly represents the journey from birth to death and the beginning of a new existence after. The journey of those who came before paved the way for the present. Leading to our diaspora, a product of our past.
(自我)
蝴 hú embraces the beauty of the Chinese diaspora and ethnic identities in a multicultural society by preserving traditional chinese motifs within their designs.
7
A space where individuals of diasporic descent feel acknowledged and connected.
three
love across
lifetime (情定)
蝴 hú’s “Knots of Eternity” collection explores the Chinese endless knot, as a symbol of the unbreakable bond forged by Chinese diasporic communities through their shared arduous journeys, weaving their destinies across their lifetimes. Reimagining six traditional knots to pay homage to the interconnectedness of the diverse cultures and identities birthed from the Chinese diaspora in Singapore.
三 生
9
three
the TANG MOROKAT PECH VANESSA NG ZI EN lighting & set design IMAN IZZATI styling WEE JAMIE hair & make up JOLEEN CHEW & NG JING WEN photography
art direction
first
11
exchange 初次的
(邂逅)
three
第一次
“in a world where souls entwine across ages,
lies two hearts whose paths converge.”
的
(相遇)
ZHE HAN RUS
memories that linger 会飞的想念 on echoes from beyond 来日不方长 on
13
three
爱点燃
15
“love ignites – bright and swift
a subtle glimpse of familiarity cradled by warmth.”
(温暖)
three
memories that linger 会飞的想念 on
ZHE HAN
17
交织
echoes from beyond 来日不方长 on
在 一 起
RUS
three
a we
bond implore 无尽的
“as if bound by something greater, they reconnect against boundless horizons.”
(连结)
TANG MOROKAT PECH VANESSA NG ZI EN lighting & set design IMAN IZZATI styling WEE JAMIE hair & make up JOLEEN CHEW & NG JING WEN photography
art direction
19
three
“a quiet strength. a sanctuary of sorts. the calm in life’s storms, finding comfort and resilience in each other’s embrace.”
21
echoes from beyond 来日不方长 on
ZHE HAN
持久
a
(的爱)
lasting
bond
23
three
echoes from beyond 来日不方长 on ZHE yesterday once more 昨日重现 on
HAN RUS
three
will we reunite once more? TANG MOROKAT PECH VANESSA NG ZI EN lighting & set design IMAN IZZATI styling WEE JAMIE hair & make up JOLEEN CHEW & NG JING WEN photography
art direction
25
是否
相聚?
能
two
27
echoes from beyond 来日不方长 on
ZHE HAN RUS
memories that linger 会飞的想念 on
three
29
yesterday once more 昨日重现 on
ZHE HAN RUS
memories that linger 会飞的想念 on
“eternally lit. unmarred by doubt or regret, radiating like a beacon of hope.”
31
yesterday once more 昨日重现 on
ZHE HAN RUS
memories that linger 会飞的想念 on
three
征服
33
“in the face of trials and internal strife, overcoming the march of time. a steadfast affirmation that love indeed conquers all.”
爱
(一切)
four
endless loops transcending the passage of time.
an ode to
eternal bonds
with every twist and turn, crafting a beauty so sublime.
(无限)
37
knots of eternity
每 一 次 的 曲 折
The “Knots of Eternity” collection reinvents the traditional Chinese knot. The endless, looping pattern devoid of a clear beginning or end, symbolises the concept of an eternal bond between two individuals. Acting as a reflection of the shared experiences of Chinese diasporic communities.
chinese
knot
中 国 结
symbolism (意义)
four
bowline knot no beginning and end. interlocking hearts represent the union of two individuals in love, where the unbroken line embodies the enduring nature of their romance.
double connection knot signifying “Good Things Come In Pairs.”a Chinese proverb alluded to the philosophical principle of yin and yang, male and female. when two find balance, it paves the way for harmony and order to prevail.
the
meaning
behind flat braid knot the intertwining of three strands symbolises the unity of mind, body and spirit, or the fusion of different energies to form a harmonious and integrated whole.
41
climbing knot the looped and interwoven structure of the knot conveys an unbreakable connection between two. a secure technique reflects a love that deepens and strengthens with time.
figure eight knot represent the concept of limitless and eternity, metaphorically with respect to love. resembling an infinity sign, a symbol of timeless affection and the unity of two.
(意义)
true love knot encapsulating the promise of love’s constancy, fidelity and commitment to each other even after death. portraying steadfastness and loyalty.
five
not lost,
but forgotten vanishing arts find a renewed embrace, in the heart of a celebration persisting from days gone by.
(遗失的时光)
On the seventh day of the seventh month in the Chinese calendar, lies Qixi Fest – a celebration of mastery and craftsmanship. Founder Lynn Wong recounts her efforts to revive this age-old festival after its disappearance for over 50 years.
43
Originating from the multicultural “Wish Upon A Star” festival, the belief holds that praising one’s crafts quickens the fulfilment of their wishes. To foster inclusivity in this Chinese festival, workshops and talks are conducted in English, accompanied by modern and colourful illustrations. This renders it accessible and appealing across generations, regardless of their cultural backgrounds.
a festive
returns
It takes two hands to clap. While people like Lynn can offer resources and experiences, it is the responsibility of others to reciprocate actively. Disregarding the label of “pure” Chinese, diverse upbringings create unique perspectives for everyone, changing the concept of “Chineseness” as we now know it.
回 归 “Ultimately, it is your roots and your identity. It is about how you pursue it.” - lynn wong
一个故事
designed by VANESSA NG ZI EN aura art by IMAN IZZATI written by JOLEEN CHEW gradient & color by WEE JAMIE art supported by TANG MOROKAT PECH & NG JING WEN
a
time
for
everything one stor y at a time, one moment at a time
一个时刻
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