It`s Chinese to me by Huang Lusha

Table of Contents

Introduction

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Goals & Objectives

Methodology

4. 5.

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Research

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a. Reading b. Interviews with Experts c. Findings

Audience & Markets a. Adoption Curve b. Personas 2

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p13

Lenses

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a. Ideation b. Brand Objects c. Design experience d. Service Design e. Speculative Co-creative workshop f. Speculative Object design

7. 8.

Looking ahead

Bibliography

9. 3

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Appendices a. Acknowledgements b. End notes c. Lexicon d. About the Author

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01 Introduction

In 2013 I came to the United States to pursue a Masters Degree in Products of Design at the School of Visual Arts. Although I had been here previously, I was confronted with culture shock and had trouble adapting to American norms and customs. I was grateful that people reached out and helped me understand what was expected. Before coming here to study, I was excited, but also nervous, about what I would experience. To help prepare, I bought several books, including one identifying itself as a survival guide for students studying in a foreign country, and questioned friends who’d done what I was about to do. They advice was to be brave and they tried to prepare me by explaining that I should try to be flexible and should not be hesitant about speaking up in class as Americans aren’t as concerned about their ideas being right. I also read what was written online in forums. While learning about Industrial Design in my undergraduate studies, I developed an interest in Chinese-made products and became focused on finding ways of changing the term “Made in China,” which is associated with low quality and cheap items. My hope was that "Created in China would elevate the reputation of Chinese manufacturing. The goal I set for myself was to rebrand the concept that everything is mass produced and inferior and infuse them with a new respect. I continued to explore this mission but realized that my objective was too ambitious for one person and revised my goal to one that is more realistic, namely to use design to help Americans gain a better understanding of Chinese culture and customs. Finding that so many here have little or no familiarity with my country, I adopted the role of messenger, eager to share our traditions and philosophy with them. I wanted to be part of building a cultural bridge. My desire was to create a clearer understanding and improve communications so Americans would appreciate Chinese customs and philosophy.

Introduction

Integrated into my thesis is the theme of luck, which dates back to Ancient China. It has always been important and remains significant with â&#x20AC;&#x153;the Good Luck Lifeâ&#x20AC;? promising to deliver fortune, prosperity, longevity, wealth, and health. [1] Good fortune and auspicious thought are central to all aspects of Chinese life and culture. The belief is by layering our lives with lucky objects and images, we improve our likelihood of success and happiness. Over the centuries, a symbolic language has evolved that expresses these ideas in art, craft, architecture, language and everyday objects. An example is the logo for Beijing's bid to host the Olympic Games, a five pointed star incorporating the Five Olympic Rings in their colors of blue, black, red, yellow and green. The five rings coil and weave together in the style of Chinese handcraft, "Panchang." The traditional art of "Chinese Knots", is the image that symbolizes unity, cooperation, communication and development of the five continents as they join hands and advance in the new century. Panchang is an ancient design that has been handed down through generations. It was originally one of the eight meaningful objects within Buddhism, also called the "Eight Auspices". According to the Buddhist definition, Panchang means, "

If the tip continues right through to the end, all else will be understood and passed". All its lines are angularly connected, and it has no starting or ending point, giving it a feeling of smooth continuity. It expresses success and constancy, auguring long life and happiness, continuation of the family line, prosperity, and lasting friendship imbued with deep affection. In a one-year process of researching and observing, I read many books, interviewed experts and familiarized myself with design. The prisms I chose were Ideation, which includes a three minute video to explain the problem I am addressing, and Speculative Objects, Brand Objects, Design experience, Service Design, Platform and App Design, speculative co-creative workshop and future speculative object design.

02 Goals & Objectives

“People don't buy what you do - they buy, why you do it. And what you do simply proves what you believe” Simon Sinek

02 Goals & Objectives

My intention is to integrate Chinese lifestyle into design in order to create an understanding of our practices. This is particularly important now that China has emerged as a superpower, which was commemorated in 2008, when it hosted the Olympics.[2] The country has become one of the largest trading partners of the United States. In 2012, China-US trade reached $484.7 billion. [3] More people are traveling to my country. Over three million visits are made between China and the U.S. each year, with some 9,000 Chinese and Americans traveling across the Pacific daily. There are over 157,000 Chinese students in the U.S.and about 20,000 American students in China.[4]

With its unique social and cultural values, China was mysterious and fascinating to the rest of the world. Since it opened up, hundreds of foreign-owned companies have invested billions of dollars doing business in the country. Many manufacturers have shifted operations to China, attracted by the cheap and plentiful labor Interactions between Westerners and Chinese have been increasing, creating a greater need for mutual understanding and to make our culture more accessible.[5] Chinese designers can be helpful in interpreting the country and its customs. I am interested in doing that, hoping to help explain our lifestyle and traditions. I have conceived of China not only as a geographic area, but also as a cultural concept. Having lived there

Goals & Objectives

and in America has given me an understanding of things Chinese take for granted that can seem peculiar to those unfamiliar with our background and customs. A good illustration is the number 36. Our parents teach us to chew our food 36 times. Yes, it is easy to understand that chewing longer is helpful to the digestive system. But why 36? According to Chinese wisdom, that number relates to the celestial bodies of motion and “dies Faustus”, which means lucky day. It was written about during the ming Dynasty by Li Shizhen in the book “Compendium of Materia Medica,” regarded as the most comprehensive medical book ever written about traditional Chinese medicine. Lucky numbers are very important in our culture with particular ones singled out because their pronunciations sound similar to words associated with good luck. The number 9 is pronounced very much like the word for permanence, making it very special. People select lucky numbers when choosing residences, telephone numbers, business addresses, wedding dates, festivals and other celebratory events. Additionally, even numbers are preferred over odd ones, the reason being we value harmony and balance. Number 2 represents harmony, and number 6 success. Conversely, the number 4 is avoided as it means death. Virtually all tall buildings have no fourth floor—just as many buildings in North America have no 13th floor. In Hong Kong, an industrial and commercial city, competition is fierce and merchants vie for success. They take numerical superstitions seriously and try to give themselves an advantage by selecting lucky days to celebrate grand openings or when signing contracts. They hope an 8 will bring good fortune and that a 9 will give a business permanence, believing that a 6 will help make their venture successful.[6] Jewelry and symbols are thought to have powers. Even many non-Buddhists wear Buddha and Guan Yin jade talisman, believing they will ward off trouble. There is a saying, "Gold has a value; jade is invaluable." The Chinese word for jade is “Yu”. The English word jade comes from the Spanish term piedra de ijada or "loin stone", associated with an efficacy in curing ailments of the loins or kidneys. This may be why jade is thought to be helpful with some medical conditions. Just as a tree can purify the air, jade is thought to cleanse the body and protect people from harmful effects of computers, mobile phones or negative energy. The stone is thought to bring longevity, good health and peace of mind. Before I came to America to study, my mom gave me protective talismans and jewelry, including a jade bracelet.[7]

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Only passions, great passions, can elevate the soul to great things.â&#x20AC;? Denis Diderot

Goals & Objectives

Enhancing Americansâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; understanding of China and its 1.3 billion people to eliminate the gap between the two nations and to promote better communication.

03 Methodology

If “a picture is worth a thousand words,” a video can be even more effective as a way of delivering a message and telling a story. To illustrate the points of my thesis, I have included a threeminute introductory video. There are two parts to the video. The first presents three different conversations between two individuals. The second is an animation depicting an American (Rob) and a Chinese (Kelly) having trouble understanding the other’s culture.

Methodology

When When he he gives gives her her aa birthday gift of birthday gift of four four pears, pears, unaware that that Chinese Chinese never never unaware give a pear because the give a pear because the pronunciation pronunciation of of “Pear” “Pear” (“Li ”) is the same (“Li ”) is the same as as th thee word meaning meaning “to “to be be apart apart word from people and to never from people and to never see see each each other other again.” again.” h hee is baffled by her reaction is baffled by her reaction, , Thenumber number4,4,too, too,isis The considered extremely considered extremely unlucky unlucky as as it it has has the the sam samee pronunciation as “death. pronunciation as “death.””

Methodology

In In another another scenario, scenario, Kelly Kelly hears about Rob’s recent hears about Rob’s recent job job interviews interviews and and wants wants to wish him good to wish him good luck luck by by giving giving him him aa red red pin pin with with the the number number “six” “six” on on it, it, the reason being that the reason being that 66 is is aa lucky lucky number number because because in in Mandarin Mandarin “six” “six” sounds sounds like the word “flow” like the word “flow” and and suggests suggests that that everything everything will will go go very very smoothly. smoothly. But But in America, the in America, the number number 666 666 is is associated associated with with the the devil and avoided devil and avoided so so Rob, Rob, unfamiliar unfamiliar with with this, this, doesn’t doesn’t appreciate the intention appreciate the intention of of the gift. the gift.

Methodology

The The last last scene scene shows shows Rob Rob giving Kelly a clock giving Kelly a clock to to celebrate celebrate her her moving moving into into new apartment. apartment. This This is is aa new not a gift Kelly wants as not a gift Kelly wants as “song “song zhong” zhong” sounds sounds like like the phrase that the phrase that means means to to attend aa funeral funeral so so she she attend wants wants it it out out of of sight, sight, but but waits until Rob waits until Rob leaves leaves to to put put it it away. away.

The video demonstrates misunderstandings caused by unfamiliarity of the otherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s culture. I want to minimize these, which is why I hope Americans will watch it. The second part of the video uses motion graphic with voice overs to show how being unaware of the otherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s traditions creates problems for two friends. Understanding the quirks of the other culture is likely to eliminate these kinds of mistakes.

04 Research

a.Reading Research began with reading books about culture, symbolism and design in China.

CHINESE PHILOSOPHY

The other major contribution of Taoism is the art of Feng Shui, the practice of aligning one`s physical environment in harmony with nature. [8][9][10] My thesis addresses the aspect of luck in the culture. Taoism has many aspects relating to it, namely Feng shui, Supersitions and Harmony.

1. FENG SHUI Feng shui (pronounced “fung shway”) translates to “wind and water.” It is based on the belief that the natural environment influences one’s fortune. Every hill, field, and body of water is considered when positioning graves, temples, homes, and, perhaps even most important, offices. The concept is that you can bring balance into your life by harnessing the natural resources so they have a positive effect on health, wealth, family life, and relationships. It originated in the 6th century BCS, founded by the philosopher Laozi (formerly spelled “Lao-tzu”), maintaining there are two forces, yin being negative and yang positive. At the basis of it is that all the elements of the universe -- water, earth, metal, fire and wood – must be in harmony for an individual, city or nation to succeed.

Research

Books I read.

Research

The concept is taken extremely seriously. I. M. Pei’s stunning modern design for the Hong Kong Bank of China skyscraper in 1982 set off alarms. Local residents thought its sharp angles sent bad qi towards their homes. There was an added objection to the two white finials on the tower looking like incense sticks placed before shrines of the dead. Evoking the dead on a large scale is a definite Feng Shui no-no. There were huge protests when the designs for the new Hong Kong International Airort (what would be the world’s largest airport) showed it was being built on reclaimed land from the ocean near Lantau and a smaller island was leveled to create space for it. Old-timers argued that its position would deflect positive qi from Hong Kong. When it opened in 1998 amid the growing East Asian economic crisis that had begun the previous year, Feng Shui experts blamed the new airport for ruining Hong Kong’s economy. In fact, some suspected the project was a mainland Chinese scheme to destroy Hong Kong in order for Shanghai to replace it as the financial capital. This was their position despite the fact that the airport was designed. The practice of Feng Shui has become fashionable in the West though it is now less popular in China (except for areas in the south and in Hong Kong).[11][12]

2. SUPERSTITIONS In addition to engaging in ritualistic worship, many Chinese are extremely superstitious. There are dozens, if not hundreds, of superstitions. Those in rural areas tend to be more serious about it than their urban counterparts. Despite educated, urban Chinese discrediting it, many do consult a fortune teller before marriage, a new job or other major event. Factories devoted to producing religious items thought to portend good luck are sprouting up throughout the country with religion being a big business. Temples in

China are ornately carved and often have a carnival-like atmosphere. People burn incense and make offerings to the gods, milling around with friends and family, relaxing in the pleasant settings, where there are apt to be snack shops and other facilities attached to the temple compound. The four most popular things Chinese people pray for are: 1) Money and success; 2) Good health; 3) To have a son as the bloodline passes through the male side with women joining their husband's families and looking after their inlaws, the reason why a son was seen as an asset; andd 4) Academic success. Ancestor worship figures prominently into religious beliefs. People set up tables with beautifully decorated food offerings to loved ones who have recently died. They also burn “ghost money” in specially designed incineration bins, believing this will inspire better care in the afterlife. Fortune telling remains popular among some groups, particularly before an important event. This can be astrology, palm reading, face reading and “Kau Cim.” The latter is the practice of shaking a bamboo cylinder containing a number of modified incense sticks that are inscribed with Chinese characters. When a stick falls out of the cylinder, its characters are interpreted to formulate an answer to one’s question. [13]

3. HARMONY

Ji Xianlin was referring to harmony from within and between others, another important component of the culture, allied to the concept of luck that originated in ancient times with the hope of inviting good fortune and happiness while deflecting evil and harm. Harmony was and continues to be valued; it was a significant theme of the 2008 Beijing Olympics, as it had been for the Chinese Communist Party.

‘’Harmony is one of the great gifts the Chinese nation offers to the world."

Building a harmonious society is Said leading scholar, Ji Xianlin. important. This includes reducing the wealth gap between the rich and the poor, improving relations between humanity and the environment, and having a peaceful world order, this being especially valued with experts saying that within a few decades, China is likely to be the world’s dominant power. [14]

4. CULTURE SHOCK When first arriving in a strange country, it’s not uncommon to feel overwhelmed, unsure what is appropriate and concerned about functioning competently. Initial excitement is likely to be replaced with anxiety, disorientation, bewilderment and frustration. Living in a foreign country can be stressful, particularly if the language is a barrier. Even an intelligent, educated individual may be rendered helpless when signs, billboards and media broadcasts cannot be understood. Ordinary tasks, like finding an address, ordering in a restaurant or buying a household item or medication, can be daunting. [15]

Research

b. Interviews with Experts Among those I interviewed were Chinese living in the US who are familiar with both cultures and other foreigners with varying degrees of exposure to Chinese traditions.

“Many Chinese social networks have more features than American John Maeda A Japanese-American graphic designer, a partner at Kleiner Perkins Caufied & Byers, is a computer scientist, academic and author. The President of the Rhode Island School of Design from 2008 to 2013, he has explored design, technology and leadership. He credits his country with being highly innovative and wanted to be sure I know that he feels people can’t hear you until you hear them. He pointed to Dianping, the mobile app that provides a personalized, local search experience along with discounted gift certificates for local or national companies. To understand this behemoth, think Yelp meets Foursquare, offering restaurant deals and group buying. The mobile app recently surpassed 150 million users, showing a growth of 86% year by year. It’s particularly popular with a younger demographic, who rely on it for deals and to share their locations. Want to meet with someone in the immensely complex streets of Beijing? Dianping will provide you with directions to that person.[16]

Research

“You should challenge and convince the people who don`t care much about Chinese design and sell it short” Rob Walker Writer at Yahoo Tech! and faculty in SVA, advised me to forget what I know and question people as to how familiar they are with Chinese design. “And,” he said, “remember your mission: spread Chinese culture to the world.” He suggested I ask questions like, Why is this important to you? Why should it be important to others? He believed that would stimulate people to reflect on the relevance of knowing about China. Additionally, he urged me to use storytelling to interest the audience, reminding me to listen attentively.

“Consider using storytelling and emotions when designing, feeling it’s crucial to incorporate contemporary Eric Chan needs.”

Founder and President at ECCO Design, addressed the label, "Made in China,” insisting it’s not always a negative. He suggested I consider using storytelling and emotions when designing. Also, it’s crucial to incorporate contemporary needs and adapt older designs to reflect what is now popular . An example he cited was the Japanese fashion designer Issey Miyake, who combines tradition with evolutionary design. He asked me to give an exam (you have this above also) This chair reflects ideas from Zen and Tao with clean, elegant lines with a minimal use of carvings. Lattice is often used to create the light, open structure.

Research

Eric Chan asked me to give an example of Chinese design. I offered the Ming chair.

Research

“Contrast the relative lack of symbolism in the western sensibility with the prominence of luck in our culture.” Elan Cole Freelance Creative Director, Brand Experience at Co:Collective, Stag & Hare, Edelman Digital and DMA United, spent five years helping rebrand Chinese companies. Learning I was addressing the significance of luck, he suggested I consider how it factors into technology, asking, “Can you redesign a mobile phone into a lucky mobile phone?” To his question if I could incorporate luck in other ways, I came up with the idea of someone glancing at a door key six times a day with the hope of inviting good fortune, chosen because six is a lucky number. It also provoked me to consider what a lucky iPhone might look like. 48

Research

Sinclair Smith, on the faculty of SVA and the Pratt Institute, expressed curiosity about Chinese culture, asking me to explain the architecture, specifically why cornices face the sky. He’d found it interesting when his students at the Pratt Institute made plates as those designed by Chinese students were streamlined and had organic shapes while Americans designed round plates. He feels strongly that Americans need to learn more about Chinese culture.

Marilynn Davis, CEO in strategy, operations and new business development at K2S, used the term "Chinese sensibility,” meaning showing respect for natural context, being quiet and reflective, looking inward, reminiscent of courtyard living, while celebrating community.

Steve Chucovich, design manager at Buro Happold Engineering, said for over 2000 years, China has been innovating in the fields of what we now call industrial and product design. In much of this process, there seemed to have been a clear sense of purpose (function) along with an aesthetic that manifested itself in context and culture.

Ella Huang, assistant Professor at Columbia College Chicago, raised the issue of children’s clothing and paying attention to when particular styles were introduced. After wondering if a culture is capable of changing, she cited an example of that happening with diapers. Though popular in the West, the disposable diaper wasn’t available in China, where babies wore cloth diapers or none at all. Proctor & Gamble introduced a breathable and affordable material and that caused Chinese parents to accept the new concept. 50

Alexandra Dymowska, senior Creative Designer at Cadillac at General Motors, reminded me to consider my audience -- whether I’m aiming to reach my program peers and faculty, the general population of America, nondesigners in China or the entire world. She felt I should be specific in my choice, which led me to focus on Americans with reason to be interested in Chinese culture.

Rubin Chen, journalist at the “The China Press,” talked about how Americans protect art and design, citing as an example that he’d received an announcement in September 2014 from the MET to attend a Chinese fashion exhibition not being held until May of 2015. He interpreted this “save the date” card sent so far in advance to mean that Americans are very serious about art, more so than the Chinese.

Quanxiao Liang, an industrial designer at Pin Wu Studio founded in 2008 to create products that marry traditional Chinese craft culture with a contemporary design aesthetic, termed, "Future Tradition." She made the point that although the country is vast, there are 55 minority groups, each very different from the others. Even the group known as the Han, which incorporates 92% of the population, is extremely heterogeneous. “This is a marked contrast to the Japanese,” she said, “who are all known as the Yamato people and share a common sensibility, which is why it is easier to understand the Japanese style.” [17]

05 Audience & Markets

a. Adoption Curve In his book â&#x20AC;&#x153;Diffusion of Innovations,â&#x20AC;? Everett Rogers, a professor of communication studies, explaines how, why, and at what rate new ideas and technology spread through cultures. He breaks down the population into an adoption curve set forth by George Beal, Joe Bohlen and Everett Rogers with five categories: innovators (2.5%), early adopters (13.5%), early majority (34%), late majority(34%), and laggards(16%). The innovators, though a small percentage (only 2.5%) of the population, are critical, which is why I have chosen them as my target group. They are responsive to new ideas and willing to experiment so are more likely to spark to the physical and digital objects I am designing. This is the classification with the highest social status and greatest financial liquidity, individuals with the greatest awareness of scientific sources who interact with others like themselves. Their risk tolerance allows them to adopt technologies that may ultimately fail, but they have the financial resources to help absorb the failures. An example of this sort of person is one who spends an entire night waiting outside an Apple store to buy a newly released product. He or she wants to be among the first to own something and will do what is necessary to get it. 55

Audience & Markets

a.ALL USERS: What do they all share?

They are innovators neophilias, learners -- eager to learn Chinese culture for their needs. Also they are willing to share with others. What makes them different? Nationality- American Age Range 16 - 50 years old Positive personality Negative personality Location: China & America Meaningful Groups

Group 1 Americans whose exposure to the country is mainly that they own products labeled “Made in China,” purchased because they are available and affordable. Even if the items are useful, they do not illuminate anything about the culture or stimulate interest in our traditions.

Group Attributes Goal:

Personas:

They try to understand Chinese philosophy and know more about the country.

Paul Johnson, 26 years old, from North Boston, studying Fine Arts in NYC

Questions:

Behavioral Demographic:

They are looking to know something about a new culture without devoting serious time to it and should be taught in a way that’s simple and easy to absorb. Frustration/Pain Points: They are busy with their own affairs and cannot devote much time to this.

Has a Chinese girlfriend because an Asian girlfriend is trendy. Interested in the country’s culture, he loves watching Kung Fu movies, owns many “Made in China” products and is currently taking time off from homework to learn Chinese as he plans on visiting his girlfriend’s hometown with her at some point.

Frustration/Pain Points:

Pain Point/Need

They are busy with their own affairs and cannot devote much time to learn about

Though he wants to know more about Chinese customs and traditions, he isn’t sure how to go about it. His time is limited, but he would like to communicate better with his girlfriend and have more information about her background and country.

The name of Group 1: American who have given little consideration to China.

Solution:

I can create a platform for him to learn Chinese culture and design interactions to maximize what he picks up in a reasonable amount of time. 56

Audience & Markets

Group 2 Americans with a negative view of China, seeing it as a country that knocks off other countries’ ideas. They feel there is no originality in Chinese design. They do, however, admit that China is the elephant in the room. They want to visit, but have no understanding of what to expect.

Group Attributes Goal:

To check out whether or not their opinions are valid. Questions:

Personas:

David Johnson, 43 years old, from North Texas, working in NYC.

Need a lot of examples to show what the Chinese culture is. Behavioral Demographic: From middle America, never visited a foreign country. Frustration/Pain Points: His information is limited to what he’s picked up from There are quite a few negative Chinese news stories newspapers and the Internet. He has no particular interest reported by western media, not always accurately. If the in products coming from China and may, in fact, feel people in this group were better informed, they would threatened by the country’s growing prominence. likely have more positive feelings about our country. Pain Point/Need: The name of Group 2: Even if he has some curiosity about Chinese Americans with negative feelings about China. culture, he isn't attracted to stories about it and gave no thought to finding out more. Solution:

The app I create will help him learn about China without requiring effort or travel.

Audience & Markets

Group3 Americans who live and work in China, who’d been attracted by its history and were motivated to have a different experience. They are living the American dream, just not in America.

Group Attributes Goal: To gain a clearer understanding of the country and to function more comfortably there. Questions: Feel it is hard to get access and understand the Chinese culture. Frustration/Pain Points:

Most take a course in the language and culture, but it’s apt to be costly, requiring tuition and living expenses. I will provide cheaper alternatives. The name of Group 3: Americans doing business in China Statistics: Second only to South Koreans, U.S. Citizens were the largest national group among the nearly 600,000 foreigners living on the Chinese mainland at the end of 2010, according to China’s national statistics bureau Department. A 2005 estimate of 110,000 Americans living in China included Hong Kong residents Over 60,000 Americans live in Hong Kong, according to the U.S. Another 430,000 people from Taiwan, Hong Kong and Macau were living in China at the end of 2010, but Beijing does not count them as foreign residents.

Personas:

Tom Smith, 40 years old, from California, is being sent to work in a commercial company in Guangzhou, China and moving his entire family. Behavioral Demographic:

He wants to make friends with Chinese people, but finds it intimidating. Lacking confidence and afraid of offending, he prepared for the move by buying books and becoming somewhat familiar with the culture. What he is most looking forward to is the food. Pain Point/Need:

Although he is a bit more informed, he remains concerned that the reality will be difficult and that he may not be prepared for what he will actually experience. He’s particularly afraid he may say something, perhaps make a joke, that isn’t appropriate, worried he could unwittingly offend. Aware that he will be functioning in a group of Chinese, he would like to feel more knowledgeable and be able to speak with some competence. As much as he loves eating Chinese food, he’s worried he doesn’t understand the etiquette and customs at the table. Solution:

I can build a platform, an app and website to teach foreigners about our culture so they are more assured that they can interact well with business associates. I will also create networking opportunities for Americans living in China to connect and support one another.

06 Lenses

Ideation, social enterprise, brand objects, and design experience are the lenses applied to my work, instrumental in my discovering news perspectives. These inspired and informed the entire project. To help my audience understand the Chinese concept of luck, the following chart compares how the concept differs in the two countries. American symbols have a blue background while Chinese are shown against red. Many Americans believe in Jesus while Buddha is the most common religious figure in China. In America, white represents purity (virginity) and is worn at a wedding by the bride. In China, white is reserved for death and is the color chosen for funerals, e.g., for flowers and the envelopes containing money. Notice the two faces of the owls. “Wise as an owl” is an expression Americans use. In China, the owl is regarded as evil. Seeing one at night is taken to mean that bad luck is ahead. Westerners look upon a dog as a loyal companion, “man’s best friend,” part of the family. A dog is loving and positive. To the Chinese, a dog is disdained, a negative symbol of a minion or servant, a lower form of life, looked down upon, rather than adored and coddled. A dog is even below a cat in the animal chain with the cat being seen as a symbol of cuteness.

Lenses

A rabbit’s foot in America is considered a lucky object, the equivalent of what Buddha beads are to Chinese. The dragon is regarded as evil by Americans, shown erupting fire that is destructive. Chinese see the dragon as a lucky animal that offers protection. 7 is a meaningful and positive number in America, significant in measuring time and appearing 735 times in the Bible. Not only is it the number of days in a week, but there are 7 colors in a rainbow, 7 notes on a musical scale, 7 seas and 7 continents. Stop anyone on the street and ask them to choose an odd number between 1 and 10, and they’re most likely to pick 7. Chinese regard the number 8 as lucky because the pronunciation (Ba) is similar to 发 (Fa, meaning wealth or fortune). That’s why the Beijing Olympic Games commenced at exactly eight o’clock, eight minutes on the eighth day of the eighth month in 2008. When people choose telephone numbers, mobile numbers, house numbers, car identification numbers and important dates, 8 is usually the first choice. An American superstition is to avoid the number 13, a fear known as triskaidekaphobia. A 13th floor is often omitted in buildings and Friday the 13th is thought to be an unlucky day. The Chinese feel that way about the number 4 because the pronunciation sounds like the word for “death.” 66

Lenses

As a designer, I witnessed how my country developed. While visiting Finland, Norway, Denmark, Germany, Sweden and Japan, I was aware of seeing Chinese products. The "made in China" label tends to be associated with low price and inferior quality. But there are always numerous objects with "Made in China" label. People always associate these objects with low price and low quality. There is no denying that China is a significant man ufacturing country, and we have tremendous design power. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Made in Chinaâ&#x20AC;? is label well known to Americans, and I am seeking to rebrand our products to dignify them, the way other labels enhance an item. Luxury designers, such as Hermes in France and Bottega Veneta in Italy, are identified as having quality and inspire respect. Their branding and public image suggests they are elite products. I hope to bring that kind of identity to Chinese items, elevating their image. I redesigned the "Made in China "label to make people aware at our design power. See illustrations below and to the right. China has five thousand years of cultural history; making delicate objects is our philosophy. I put the Chinese traditional cultural pattern on each label to make a subtle label. And behind each design there is a story that encourages people to pay attention to Chinese design power through the graceful label. QR code can be scanned to learn more about the product.

BRAND PYRAMID

CONNECTION

INTERACTIVE INVOLVED INSPIRING

PROMOTE CHINESE DESIGN CATCH ATTENTION OF FOREIGNER CULTURAL EXCHANGE

b. Branding Objects are conceptual design ideas, sketches, 3D models and functional prototypes, visual components that help clarify what is being communicated in the text. The visual representation of the design pulls together the essence of the thesis, adding some understanding of the culture and upgrading the image of Chinese products. The brand I am introducing "Created in China." uses an "I" modeled after the Ancient Architect HuaBiao structure in TianAnMen Square. (See next illustration)

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Lenses

1. 888 tape Numbers have always been significant in China with some considered lucky and predictive of good fortune while others are negative. This is taken seriously when buying a residence, choosing a telephone number, selecting a date for a wedding ceremony, or picking an identification number for a vehicle. (See below) 8 has long been regarded as the luckiest number. It is pronounced 'Ba', sounding much like 'Fa', which means to make a fortune. Equated with prosperity, success and high social status, it is favored by business people. Some will pay more for a phone number that includes an 8. Residences on the eighth floor of a building are prized. In the 1990s, a vehicle identification number with an 8 was auctioned off

for 5 million Hong Kong dollars (almost 4,222 US dollars). I designed sticky tape with the number 8 on it, sure to appeal to Chinese as it is such a desirable number. It is likely to be used when wrapping gifts or simply to send a positive message and make everything lucky. 76

Lenses

NOPE! NOPE!

NOPE!

2. Fish plate In southern China, when people finish eating the upper part of a fish, they do not turn it over. This is because of the superstition that doing so will cause a fishing boat to capsize in the ocean. Instead, they remove the bone and eat the other side without turning over the fish. I still remember my mom hitting my hand when I was a little girl and turned over the fish. To accommodate this practice, I designed a plate with an alarm that sounds if somebody starts to turn over the fish.

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3. Beer and tea level-line Cup Tea is not just a drink, but a concept. Many Chinese believe that tea should fill only 70% of the cup, leaving the remaining 30% as "space for your emotions.â&#x20AC;? I redesigned the iconic American party cup, embossing two words inside it at different levels: one for tea, and one for beer. In our culture, tea should fill only 70% of a cup, leaving 30% empty. If, however, you are pouring beer, you fill the cup to the top. Anything less is a sign of disrespect.

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4. Draw lots game Many Chinese are in the habit of drawing lots and asking gods for an oracle. Kau Cim Bucket is a small bamboo handheld cylinder filled with flat sticks that look something like incense sticks. Numbers in Chinese characters 1 to 78 are inscribed on the sticks. This method of fortune telling involves shaking the box so that one stick jumps out of the box. Instead of an interpreter, a computer tells you what this indicates. The fortune begins with "Your luck for today" unless it is after sundown, in which case it refers to the following day. You will also receive "Your fortune" and "Important events" that will occur. Before you shake the box, you must think of a wish. Depending on which number comes up, you will have an indication of whether or not it will come true. [18] The game I designed will have 9 transparent sticks and one red one. The winner is the person who draws the red (lucky) one.

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5. Lucky money packets Also known as Hongbao or Yasuigian, Chinese lucky money is a gift given during the Spring Festival holiday. “Hongbao” means red packet and represents the respect for that color, which is associated with good luck. “Yasuiqian” is thought to ward off evil spirits and protect children from sickness and misfortune. When given to the elderly, it is to wish them health and longevity. The Chinese Zodiac, calculated by the Chinese lunar calendar, is based on a twelve-year cycle with each year related to an animal sign: the rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, sheep, monkey, rooster, dog and pig. It is believed that the year determines the character of people, not unlike how zodiac signs are interpreted in western civilization. As 2015 is sheep year, I designed a lucky money packet with a hollow sheep shape so the lucky money inside can be seen. 89

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c. Design experience Here are a few thoughts from the esteemed NATHAN SHEDROFF, chair of CCA’s MBA in Design Strategy: Design “encompasses multiple senses and explores the common characteristics in all media that make experiences successful. It recognizes that no matter what we create (product, service, event, or environment), there is always an experience created that surrounds it. As a result, whether we intend to or not, our creations impact our customers, audiences, and users in ways usually not acknowledged or addressed.” My thesis encompasses compelling, delightful and meaningful experiences that involve multiple senses in the designs.” Emily Beltz, the professor teaching my “Design Delighted” class, emphasized the importance of attraction, engagement and conclusion in creating an experience. The event I created took place in Manhattan’s Chinatown, home to the largest enclave of Chinese in the western hemisphere. With an estimated population of 90,000 to 100,000 people,[19], it is one of the oldest Chinese communities outside of Asia. (See photo)

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Though the neighborhood is home to many shops selling lucky objects, there is a lack of understanding about them. Those unaware of the symbols are often overwhelmed and, as a result, buy nothing. Shopkeepers, I observed, made no effort to explain the significance to potential customers, not wanting them to feel pressured. But this left them uninformed. Sara Dino, a California girl who visited her aunt in New York City, recalled an experience she’d had when she was only six years old and had chosen a small, fuzzy lion in a shop. She felt insulted, which is why she still remembers the clerk asking, “Do you even know the purpose for this thing in Chinese culture?”

I set out to design an experience that would introduce non-Chinese people to what we consider lucky so they could, if they so chose, buy objects thought to be lucky for their particular needs and situations. I created tags with explanations to be displayed with the items or attached to them so customers would have the information needed. This is less invasive than a clerk offering the information. I conducted the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Chinese Lucky Clinicâ&#x20AC;? in conjunction with the Harmony Gift Center at 63 Bayard Street, which sells Buddhist statues and other ritual objects. Ben Chen, the owner, agreed to cooperate with my efforts to share our Chinese culture with Americans. In addition to providing me with additional details about the items, he allowed me to use his shop (and has offered to do it in the future) to educate customers.

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It just looks like beautiful red stuff.

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The interactive experience I created, the Chinese palm reading, was an ideal gateway as it attracted an audience. At no charge, I provided the reading, using my iPad to scan a hand with the app “Chinese Palm Reader.” A woman’s right hand was scanned while a man gave me his left hand, the reason being there is an old Chinese expression: 'male is left, female is right'. This is also reflected in the famous yin yang symbol with the white (male) displayed on the left side and the black (female) on the right: I started by drawing the lines of their hands on the iPad and a provocative buzzing sound accompanied the start of the scanning. When done, the app began an analysis. The Line of Fate tells the importance of a career in a person`s life, The Line of Heart addresses the emotional component, and the Line of the Head relates to intellectual capacity.

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After the analysis, as the “prescriber of good fortune,” I wrote a prescription based on the results of the palm reading. If they chose to do so, the subject could then purchase a charm or other object associated with what was said to be lucky for that individual. Steven`s palm reading result was, “You are a person who must think long and hard before you start something.” I checked the box showing a lion head, the symbol believed to bring luck and depict bravery, which would be useful for his upcoming adventure. Both Chinese and non-Chinese have found this experience to be fun. Those new to our traditions were now able to distinguish between the many items available. It didn’t require shopping for them to come away with a a better understanding. After they made a purchase, I gave them a small palm necklace made of colorful acrylic, which I designed in the shape of a hand. Because the palm lines are continually changing, the customers have a guide instructing them to smile more, complain less, or buy specific lucky objects in the shop to modify the palm lines so they go in a more promising direction. Wearing the necklace, they were able to see if luck came their way. It’s fun, it’s a game, it’s original and it’s very Chinese. This created excitement and got people interested in finding out more about our traditions. Understanding what things symbolized gave them reason to buy something. Even if the didn’t share our beliefs, they were intrigued by the adventure. One American summed it up by saying, “If I have a lot of gods to protect me and bring me luck, no one will reject me, right?”

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Steven`s palm reading result was, â&#x20AC;&#x153;You are a person who must think long and hard before you start something.â&#x20AC;? I checked the box showing a lion head, the symbol believed to bring luck and depict bravery, which would be useful for his upcoming adventure.

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d. Service Design China is one of the largest trading partners of the United States. In 2012, China-US trade reached $484.7 billion. In 2013, 2 million Americans visited China. I was given these statistics by someone I interviewed at the China National Tourist Office in New York (370 Lexington Ave. #912 New York, NY 10017 USA), who also said the number of American visitors to China has increased by 60% over the past eight years. My hope is to familiarize travelers with our customs and people, both to encourage more interaction and to make them more comfortable in my country. NiHow is a cool “cultural training” app designed to introduce the Chinese lifestyle to Americans. It clarifies customs and eliminates some common misconceptions. Americans traveling to my country will appreciate this and it will be useful to teachers and students interacting in classrooms with students from China. That I am familiar with design in both countries helped me create a program that can be easily understood. My technology advisor, Kyle Yu, originally from Hong Kong, is a V.P. of Software Engineering, who worked at Shapeways, NBC and other companies in New York City. I will partner with the China National Tourist New York office (CNTO) (http://www.cnto.org), a non-profit organization whose goal is to promote travel to China. I hope they will give me the first funding. Also, I will work in conjunction with travel agencies, airlines and local restaurants. The app has a tip feature that connects users to selected companies. One of my test users, Hovey Brock, was enthusiastic and said, “I will totally use this! Americans are big on sharing. I would love to see information coming from actual people and not from companies”

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Nihow Nihow uses uses Geo Geo location location to to help Americans learn help Americans learn about about Chinese Chinese culture culture and and etiquette etiquette by by giving them tips according giving them tips according to to where where they they are are and and what what they they are are doing. For example, if a user doing. For example, if a user is is near near aa Starbucks Starbucks in in New New York, York, the app will send a notification the app will send a notification about about Chinese Chinese tea tea etiquette, etiquette, an an example of whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s example of whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s equivalent equivalent in in my country (tea being what coffee my country (tea being what coffee is is in in America). America). When When people people click click the notification sent by the notification sent by Nihow, Nihow, they they can can enlarge enlarge the the picture picture and and read what they need to know. read what they need to know. 110

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NiHow users can download the app a month before they visit China, choosing which themes they want to learn about from the following six: shopping, living, ransportation, entertainment, eating and places.

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When people click the notification send by Nihow, they have the option of clicking to get more information.

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Once an American understands more about Chinese culture from the Nihow app, he or she can start practicing what they now know, e.g., by following Nihowâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s instructions, an American will learn that tea is served to others before you serve yourself. The app also lets Americans connect with other users.

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f. Speculative Co-creative Workshop

“Designers… are forever bound to treat as real that which exists only in an imagined future and have to specify ways in which the foreseen thing can be made to exist.” John Chris Jones, Design Methods, 1992. In the Futuring and Speculative Design class, Elliott P. Montgomery guided me in creating a framework for using speculative methods that pertain to my objectives. I incorporated visual aspects to illustrate the message and provide a creative approach to exploring Chinese traditions. I assembled a group for a future workshop looking to them to co-create and generate new ideas within the confines of my projects. With over a million Chinese living in Manhattan, the city could be said to be a mini Hong Kong. I asked the group to keep that in mind and design a kit that would help Americans adapt to the rising number of Chinese living among them. The project presents them with a hypothetical scenario and challenges them to conceive of a futuristic tool. The fantasy year chosen for this project is 2050, when China`s GDP exceeds that of the United States and Manhattan is now another Hong Kong – a protectorate under Chinese control. There are 1,020,159 Chinese living in Manhattan, making the city one big Chinatown. Americans cannot function without adapting to the Chinese culture. Americans love food so our project put the focus on eating in Chinese restaurants with a game incorporating issues faced by Americans. I associated particular aspects of eating with numbers on the die and had each person roll the die to determine which they would be addressing. 1. Drinking: Chinese like drinking hot water, but Americans prefer water with ice. 2. Restroom: Chinese are fine using a squatting toilet, but Americans choose pedestal toilets. 3. Insects: Chinese eat insects, an idea that repels Americans. 4. Atmosphere: Chinese talk loudly in restaurants and enjoy a lively environment. Most Americans, particularly older ones, prefer a quieter, more serene setting. 5. Eating: Chinese are in the habit of sharing dishes, but Americans generally order individually. 6. Language: Many Chinese know English, but it’s rare for an American to speak or read Chinese. Participating in the workshop, held in the school library, were students (with different majors) attending The School of Visual Arts:

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Gabriel, a tech assistant at the library, drew Eating and designed an oversized (foot-sized) hamburger to inspire Americans to follow the Chinese custom of sharing food with others.

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Yiyi Shao, a graphic design major student, drew Language. Recognizing the difficulty Americans may have when ordering from a menu, she proposed a device that scans pictures from a menu and shows illustrations with ingredients listed both in Chinese and English. An added feature is the device releases a scent so Americans will know whether or not they like it. 123

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Chloe Ginex, an animation design major student, drew Restroom. She designed an inflatable, plastic cushion that Americans can use to transform a squatting toilet into one that allows for sitting. It can be deflated and stored.

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Amber Pwss, an animation design major student, also drew Restroom and thought of something similar to a baby-bouncer that would suspend the wearer while using the toilet.

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Shawn, a resident assistant at Ludlow Dormitory, drew Insects and designed a giant, cute colorful gummy bug to encourage Americans to feel more positively towards bugs.

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Dozie Kaw, a creative designer, also drew Insects and chose to create an app that explains the nutritional value of insects and makes the point that foods are an acquired taste.

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g. Speculative Object design Cultural transition templates

The picture on the left is the quadrants I drew: (In 2015, China`s GDP exceeds that of the United States. Therefore China is very wealthy) The Chinese certainly have made an impact on Detroit locals. “I have people calling and saying, ‘I’m serious—I wanna buy 100, 200 properties’,” reported Caroline Chen, a real estate broker in nearby Troy, Michigan, to Quartz.com. “They say, ‘We don’t need to see them.Just pick the good ones’. ” According to Chen, one of her colleagues sold 30 properties to a Chinese investor.[20] In designing a speculative object, I considered the ever-increasing contact between the two countries, which has made mutual understanding even more important. I analyzed the differences and similarities between Chinese and Americans. "Mobile communication" is now popular in both countries. The object I have considered is the mobile phone, which has another value in China, where it’s a way of gaining “face.” People talk loudly to attract the attention of others so they can show off their possession, which they see as a sign of success. Drawn by money-making opportunities, more Chinese are now living in the United States. It is, therefore, important for Americans to understand the concept of gaining face, so critical to the Chinese. Face is one’s public persona, social standing, pride, and reputation. “Saving face” is the act of preserving dignity and ultra-important. “Losing face” is the ultimate disgrace. The speculative object I designed is an iPhone case shaped like a hand that imitates the gesture made by people speaking on a mobile phone as they try to cover their mouths. Inside is a loudspeaker, and the user can transform the hand shape into the gesture of speaking loudly. The volume is adjustable. This highlights how important image is to us so Americans will appreciate the concept.

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Luck and sharing with others are the two main elements of Chinese culture. The sharing of food is a caring, and considerate gesture. Chinese people make an effort to interact harmoniously. Because eating play such a big role in both lifestyles, I chose eating in a restaurant, to examine the difference approaches. While hot tea is typically offered in a Chinese restaurant, Americans are used to getting ice water. In China, when we clink glasses, the person of higher status, eg: a manager or a professor, will place the glass on top while clinking. The worker or the student will place the glass below. Americans donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t make that distinction. Chinese share the food they order, which is far less common in America, where diners eat what they ordered. When the bill comes, Chinese fight over who will pay the entire bill. Americans are more open to splitting the cost of the meal.

Chinese people assume food will be shared. 134

However, Americans normally eat what they order for themselves.

Except pizza. Americans do love to share pizza. 135

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To expose Americans to the idea of sharing food, the speculative object I designed is called a â&#x20AC;&#x153;Cultural transition template,â&#x20AC;? based on a circular, pizza pan (a food commonly shared). For example, four customers order different entrees: steak, chicken wings, spaghetti and fish. The individual orders will be distributed on each section of the plate and customers will share what everyone has ordered. The base of the plate is made of pizza dough, which will then also be enjoyed by all.

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07 Looking ahead

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07 Looking ahead

March 19th, my birthday, fell during the last period in my thesis journey. Lance Green, my classmate, gave me a pot of orchids as a gift. He told me that he researched the meaning and found out that orchids represent love and purity in China. I was flattered that he associated me with those lovely things. He also showed a familiarity with my culture by asking the florist not to use the white wrapping, requesting red paper instead. The gift was wonderful, and I was especially gratified that he had recognized my efforts to familiarize Americans with our customs. Obviously, a year is not long enough to achieve my goal of rebranding the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Made in Chinaâ&#x20AC;? label, but I intend to pursue this and to create more exciting, lucky cultural products. Following graduation, I hope to work with the China National Tourist Office in New York, (CNTO) (http:// www.cnto.org), a non-profit organization whose goal is to promote travel to China. My desire is to get funding from them to develop my app. With luck, I will bring Americans and Chinese closer together.

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08 Bibliography

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Gong, Rosemary. Good Luck Life: The Essential Guide to Chinese American Celebrations and Culture. New York, N.Y.: HarperResource, 2005. Anthony, Michael. CHINA SHOCK: The Weird, the Bad & the Funny. Michael Anthony, 2014. "United States Census Bureau." Foreign Trade: Data. Accessed April 12, 2015. "China-U.S. Relations." China-U.S. Relations. Accessed April 12, 2015. "CNTO China Like Never Before." CNTO China Like Never Before Front Page Comments. Accessed May 31, 2015. "Lucky Numbers and Colors in Chinese Culture." ChinaHighlights. Accessed April 12, 2015. "Instant Health and Fitness.: Powerful Tools For Peace And Longevity." Instant Health and Fitness.: Powerful Tools For Peace And Longevity. Accessed April 12, 2015.

"People's World." Beijing Olympics Showcase Harmony Concept » Peoplesworld. Accessed May 21, 2015. "Chinese Beliefs of Good Luck | The Classroom | Synonym." The Classroom. Accessed May 31, 2015. Buchwald, Joshua. "American Companies Need To Pay Attention To Chinese Social Networks." Business Insider. September 2, 2014. Accessed April 12, 2015. . "Salone Milan 2012: PINWU Studio, From Yuhang to Milan at Salone Satellite." Core77. Accessed April 2015. "U.S. Expatriates Pursue American Dream in China - USATODAY.com." USATODAY.COM. Accessed May 29, 2015. "Kau Cim Fortune Telling Chi-Chi Sticks Chinese Daily Fortune Teller." Kau Cim Chien Tung Fortune Telling, Chi-Chi Sticks Chinese Daily Free Fortune Teller. Accessed April 12, 2015. "Chinatown, Manhattan." Wikipedia. Accessed May 29, 2015.

"Acupuncture." Wikipedia. Accessed April 12, 2015. "Kau Cim." Wikipedia. Accessed April 12, 2015. Ostrowski, Pierre, and Gwen Penner. It's All Chinese to Me: An Overview of Culture & Etiquette in China. North Clarendon, Vt.: Tuttle Pub., 2009. Chai, May, and Winberg Chai. China A to Z: Everything You Need to Know to Understand Chinese Customs and Culture. New York: Plume, 2007. Flower, Kathy. China - Culture Smart! Revised and Updated. Kuperard, 2003. "Traditions - Festivals and Customs." What's Lucky And What's Not in China? Accessed May 31, 2015.

"U.S. Expatriates Pursue American Dream in China - USATODAY.com." USATODAY.COM. Accessed May 29, 2015. Carreras, Geni, and Chris Thomas. Philographics: Grote Ideeen in Simpele Beelden. Uitgebreide, Tweede ed. Amsterdam: BIS Publishers, 2013. "中国制造 Made in China." Made in China. Accessed January 4, 2015. Li, Wuwei, and Michael Keane. How Creativity Is Changing China. London: Bloomsbury Academic, 2011. Keane, Michael. Creative Industries in China Art, Design and Media. Cambridge, UK: Polity Press, 2013. Wasserstrom, Jeffrey N. China in the 21st Century: What

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08 Bibliography

Everyone Needs to Know. New York, N.Y.: Oxford University Press, 2010. Sung, Vivien. Five-fold Happiness: Chinese Concepts of Luck, Prosperity, Longevity, Happiness, and Wealth. San Francisco: Chronicle Books, 2002.

"Design in China Mapping | DutchDFA | Movingcities.org." Movingcitiesorg RSS. Accessed May 31, 2015. "China Gets Innovative." Fast Company. January 27, 2007. Accessed May 31, 2015. "Why China Loves to Build Copycat Towns - BBC News." BBC News. Accessed May 31, 2015.

Williams, C. A. S. Chinese Symbolism and Art Motifs: A Comprehensive Handbook on Symbolism in Chinese Art through the Ages. 4th Rev. ed. Rutland, Vt.: Tuttle, 2006.

"ELLIOTT P MONTGOMERY : ACCOUNTING FOR THE UNACCOUNTED." ELLIOTT P MONTGOMERY : ACCOUNTING FOR THE UNACCOUNTED. Accessed May Wilkinson, Kenneth, and Kenneth Wilkinson. World Cultures 31, 2015. : China. [New ed. London: Teach Yourself, 2004. "Futures Capsules at TEDActive." The Extrapolation Factory. " Tra d i t i o n s - Fe s t i va l s a n d C u s t o m s . " W h a t ' s L u ck y March 31, 2014. Accessed May 31, 2015. And What's Not in China? Accessed May 31, 2015. "UNICEF MSA Visioning Workshop." The Extrapolation Midler, Paul. Poorly Made in China: An Insider's Account of Factory. February 24, 2014. Accessed May 31, 2015. the Tactics behind China's Production Game. Hoboken, NJ: Wiley, 2009. "The Near Future Laboratory Design Fiction Product Design Work Kit 0-TBD-D012." Wired.com. Accessed May 31, 2015. "50 Good Luck Symbols From Around The World." HubPages. Accessed May 31, 2015. "The Tarot Card Reader." The Tarot Card Reader. Accessed May 31, 2015. "Lucky Numbers and Colors in Chinese Culture." ChinaHighlights. Accessed May 31, 2015. "Bird's Eye China." Bird's Eye China. Accessed May 31, 2015. "LUCKY CULTURE." LUCKY CULTURE RSS. Accessed May 31, 2015. "The Brunch." The Brunch. Accessed May 31, 2015. "The Origins of China’s Copycat Culture." The Origins of China’s Copycat Culture. Accessed May 31, 2015.

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09 Appendices

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09 Appendices

a. Acknowledgements March 14th 2013: the date when Allan Chochinov, the chair in the Products of Design program, interviewed me through Skype. Thank you Allan, for giving me the opportunity to come to New York and study at such a wonderful school. Before I came to this program, my background was industrial design. In the last two years, I learned to expand from focusing exclusively on tangible products and started to think about digital products and other experiences. Thank you, everyone, who contributed to making my thesis possible. I would like to express my deepest gratitude to my grandparents, my parents and friends for their never-ending support. Thank you to the following (listed in random order) for your support and mentorship, who helped bring the thesis together, whether as teachers, editors, experts, or connectors.

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Allan Chochinov,

Jennifer van der Meer,

Andrew Schloss,

John Maeda,

Abby Covert,

John Thackara,

Ajay Revels,

Kyla Fullenwider,

Alexandra Dymowska,

Longquan Liang,

Brent Arnold,

Mariana Amatullo,

Chun Chun,

Marilynn Davis,

Elan Cole,

Michael Chung,

Elliot P. Montgomery,

Rebecca Silver,

Emilie Baltz,

Rob Walker,

Eric Chan,

Rubin Chen,

Hovey Brock,

Sinclair Scott Smith,

Hui Ma,

Steve Chucovich,

Janna Gilbert,

Steven Dean,

Program Chair, Products of Design

Thesis Professor

Thesis Professor, Information Architecture Advisor

Reseach and thesis Expert Advisor

Thesis Expert

App Design Advisor

Thesis Expert

Speculative Design Advisor

Experience Design Advisor

Thesis Expert

Business Strategy Advisor

Product Life Cycle Advisor

Thesis Expert and Advisor

Thesis Expert

Social Enterprise Framework Advisor

Thesis Expert

Cinematic Realty

Product Life Cycle Advisor

Thesis Expert Advisor

Thesis Expert

Presentation& Manufacturing Advisor

Thesis Expert

Service Design Advisor

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Tao Huang,

Thesis Expert

Kyle Yu, Moral Support

Sybil Sage, Thesis Editor

Adam Fujita, Film Actor

Ziyun Qi, Film Actress

Eden Lew, Voice Over

Wan Jung Hung, Photo Assistant

Vincent Chen, Photo Assistant

Chieh-Li Wei,

Motion Graphic Assistant

Dannie Wang, Film Photographic Assistant

Pingping Song,

Film Production Design Advisor

Marko Manriquez, Products of Design Operations

Gabrielle Kellner, Products of Design Operations

Alisha Wessler,

Products of Design Operations

I would like to also thank the entire class of 2015 for your support. I am lucky to have such friendly and supportive friends who helped and inspired me every step of the way. We laughed, we cried, we connected.

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b. End notes 1. Gong, Rosemary. Good Luck Life: The Essential Guide to Chinese American Celebrations and Culture. New York, N.Y.: HarperResource, 2005. 2. Anthony, Michael. CHINA SHOCK: The Weird, the Bad & the Funny. Michael Anthony, 2014. 3. "United States Census Bureau." Foreign Trade: Data. Accessed April 12, 2015. http://www.census.gov/foreign-trade/top/dst/current/ balance.html. 4. "China-U.S. Relations." China-U.S. Relations. Accessed April 12, 2015. http://www.china-embassy.org/eng/zmgx/ocusr/t946195.htm. 5. Ostrowski, Pierre, and Gwen Penner. It's All Chinese to Me: An Overview of Culture & Etiquette in China. North Clarendon, Vt.: Tuttle Pub., 2009. 6. "Lucky Numbers and Colors in Chinese Culture." ChinaHighlights. Accessed April 12, 2015. http://www.chinahighlights.com/travelguide/ culture/lucky-numbers-and-colors-in-chinese-culture.htm. 7. "Instant Health and Fitness.: Powerful Tools For Peace And Longevity." Instant Health and Fitness.: Powerful Tools For Peace And Longevity. Accessed April 12, 2015. http://shifuyanlei.blogspot.com/2010/03/ chinese-jade-jewellery-and-amulets.html. 8. "Acupuncture." Wikipedia. Accessed April 12, 2015. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Acupuncture. 9. "Kau Cim." Wikipedia. Accessed April 12, 2015. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kau_cim. 10. Ostrowski, Pierre, and Gwen Penner. It's All Chinese to Me: An Overview of Culture & Etiquette in China. North Clarendon, Vt.: Tuttle Pub., 2009. 11. Chai, May, and Winberg Chai. China A to Z: Everything You Need to Know to Understand Chinese Customs and Culture. New York: Plume, 2007.

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12. Flower, Kathy. China - Culture Smart! Revised and Updated. Kuperard, 2003. 13. Ostrowski, Pierre, and Gwen Penner. It's All Chinese to Me: An Overview of Culture & Etiquette in China. North Clarendon, Vt.: Tuttle Pub., 2009. 14. "People's World." Beijing Olympics Showcase Harmony Concept Âť Peoplesworld. Accessed May 21, 2015. 15. Ostrowski, Pierre, and Gwen Penner. It's All Chinese to Me: An Overview of Culture & Etiquette in China. North Clarendon, Vt.: Tuttle Pub., 2009. 16. Buchwald, Joshua. "American Companies Need To Pay Attention To Chinese Social Networks." Business Insider. September 2, 2014. Accessed April 12, 2015. http://www.businessinsider.com/chinas-versions-of-socialnetworks-2014-9#ixzz3WIb2KBOZ. 17. "Salone Milan 2012: PINWU Studio, From Yuhang to Milan at Salone Satellite." Core77. Accessed April 12, 2015. http://www.core77.com/ blog/salone_milan/salone_milan_2012_pinwu_studio_from_yuhang_to_ milan_at_salone_satellite_22354.asp. 18. "U.S. Expatriates Pursue American Dream in China - USATODAY.com." USATODAY.COM. Accessed May 29, 2015. http://usatoday30.usatoday. com/news/world/2011-07-12-Americans-China-dreams-transplants_n.htm. 19. "Kau Cim Fortune Telling Chi-Chi Sticks Chinese Daily Fortune Teller." Kau Cim Chien Tung Fortune Telling, Chi-Chi Sticks Chinese Daily Free Fortune Teller. Accessed April 12, 2015. http://accesschinese.com/kaucim/ index.php. 20. "Chinatown, Manhattan." Wikipedia. Accessed May 29, 2015. http:// en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chinatown,_Manhattan 21. "U.S. Expatriates Pursue American Dream in China - USATODAY.com." USATODAY.COM. Accessed May 29, 2015. http://usatoday30.usatoday. com/news/world/2011-07-12-Americans-China-dreams-transplants_n.htm.

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c. Lexicon

Mythology:

Panchang:

A set of stories, traditions, or beliefs associated with a particular group or the history of an event, arising naturally or deliberately fostered.

A design that has been handed down through generations of Chinese people. It was originally one of the eight auspicious objects within Buddhism. The design of all eight important objects together is called the "Eight Auspices".

Confucianism:

A system of ethics, founded on the teachings of Confucius, that influenced the traditional culture of China. It places a high value on learning and family relationships.

Amulet:

An ornament or small piece of jewelry thought to give protection against evil, danger, or disease.

Legalism:

Jade:

A Classical Chinese philosophy that emphasizes the need for order above all other human concerns.

A hard, typically green stone used for ornaments and implements and consisting of the minerals jadeite or nephrite.

Taoism:

Dies Faustus:

A philosophy based on the writings of Lao-tzu ( fl. 6th century BC), advocating humility and religious piety.

Compendium of Materia Medica: written by Li Shizhen during the Ming

FengShui:

Lucky day.

Literally means "wind and water." Its roots are 5,000 years old. It’s a philosophy that Dynasty. This work is regarded as the most complete and considers the five natural elements – water, fire, wood, comprehensive books ever written about traditional Chinese metal and earth – and the external environment with yin medicine. being feminine and passive energy while yang is masculine and hot.

Ming Dynasty:

Culture Shock:

A major dynasty that ruled China from the mid-fourteenth to the mid-seventeenth century. It was marked by a great expansion of Chinese commerce into East Africa, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia.

Han Chinese: The country’s largest, indigenous,

ethnic group.

Talisman:

A stone, ring, or other object, engraved with figures or characters supposed to possess occult powers and worn as an amulet or charm.

The personal disorientation a person may feel when experiencing an unfamiliar way of life, whether immigrating or visiting a new country or being introduced to an unfamiliar place or tradition.

Issey Miyake:

A Japanese fashion designer. He is known for his technology-driven clothing designs, exhibitions and fragrances.

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Zen:

A school of Mahayana Buddhism[note 1] that developed in China during the Tang dynasty as Chรกn. From China, Zen spread south to Vietnam, northeast to Korea and east to Japan.Zen emphasizes rigorous meditation-practice, insight into Buddha-nature, and the personal expression of this insight in daily life, especially for the benefit of others.

Qianlong emperor:

The sixth emperor of the Manchu-led Qing Dynasty, and the fourth Qing emperor to rule over China proper.

Jiangnan:

A geographic area in China referring to lands immediately to the south of the lower reaches of the Yangtze River, including the southern part of the Yangtze Delta.

Kongfu:

A number of fighting styles that have developed over the centuries in China.

Neophilia:

Triskaidekaphobia:

Extreme superstition regarding the number thirteen.

Chinese Zodiac:

Literally "birth likeness", is also known in English as the Chinese zodiac. Zodiac derives from the similar concept in western astrology and means "circle of animals". The following are the twelve zodiac signs: Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog and Pig.

Buddhist:

Religion that originated in India by Buddha (Gautama) and spread to China, Burma, Japan, Tibet, and parts of southeast Asia, holding that life is full of suffering and that one becomes enlightened through an endless sequence of births and deaths.

GDP:

Gross domestic product. GDP estimates are commonly used to measure the economic performance of a whole country or region, but can also measure the relative contribution of an industry sector.

A tendency to like anything new.

Platform:

Digital Technology.

Beijing Olympic Games:

Officially known as the Games of the XXIX Olympiad and commonly known as Beijing 2008, was a major international multi-sport event that took place in Beijing, China, from August 8 to 24, 2008.

Kau Cim:

A fortune telling practice that originated in China in which the querent (person asking the question) requests answers from a sacred oracle lot.

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Appendices

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d. About the Author Lusha Huang is from Guangzhou, China. She graduated in May 2015 with an MFA in Products of Design at the School of Visual Arts in New York City. She holds a BA in Industrial design at the Guangzhou Academy of Fine Arts. Her passion for design has been recognized in various international design competitions, such as the IF Design Award. She holds five patents for her work and was the only Chinese student asked to participate in the Milano Salone in 2012. During her undergraduate years, she was invited to Japan, North Europe and the US to exchange ideas about design. As a designer, Lusha channels her upbeat personality and love for learning and technology into her products and interactive designs. She particularly enjoys creating products and events that improve the quality of life. While studying for a Masters Degree in New York City and being a summer intern at littleBits, she discovered her interest in smart objects and The Internet of Things (IoT), a computing concept that describes a future where everyday physical objects will be connected to the Internet and be able to identify themselves to other devices. After graduating, she will embark on a new chapter as an an Industrial designer at Quirky in New York City. There she will create and design smart home devices around the internet of things in partnership with GE(General Electric). You can see her portfolio by visiting www.lusha-huang.com and contact her: lusha@lusha-huang.com

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