Sami - Resilience and Reclamation: Raw South Asian Selfhood
In the colorful tapestry of human existence, there exists a spirit named Sami, a wanderer of identities, a seeker of experiences, and a guardian of stories. Sami's journey transcends the boundaries of gender, age, and orientation, as they embark on a profound exploration of the human condition. Through my thesis project, I invite you to join me on a captivating voyage into the heart of South Asian character design, where Sami serves as our guiding light.
Concept Development | Creative Direction | Art Direction | Illustration | 3D Art | Photography | Styling | Accessory Design
Sami embodies boundless inclusivity, representing the aspirations and complexities of all individuals inhabiting this diverse world. Sami defies the limitations of a singular identity, instead embracing the full spectrum of human existence, seeking to understand and celebrate the rich diversity of life.
The title "Sami - Resilience and Reclamation: Raw South Asian Selfhood" captures the essence of this project. It is an invitation to explore the intricate layers of Sami’s being, offering a platform for discussing sisterhood, love, family dynamics, and the complexities of sexuality. I wanted Sami to be boundless in both form and spirit, pushing the boundaries of how we perceive identity. The aesthetic is intentionally raw and sometimes uncomfortable, yet familiar—reflecting the visceral, often challenging journey of self-discovery in its most authentic form.
Sami is not just a character but a representation of a spirit that transcends societal norms and expectations. Through this narrative, we engage in a transformative journey, challenging pre-established notions of identity. This project was conceptualised to provoke critical thought, encouraging us to question conventional beliefs and embrace the continuous evolution of the self.
Sami’s story is a testament to resilience and acceptance, a reminder of the strength found in adversity and the courage required to reclaim one’s authentic self. Through their story, we explore the power of storytelling as a medium for connecting shared struggles and triumphs, fostering a deeper understanding of the rich, complex tapestry that is South Asian selfhood.
In reclaiming our identity, we push back against the dehumanizing labels that have been placed upon us. Historically, in the 1800s, medical science labeled people from the sub-continent as primitive. By creating a jungle scene, I wanted to reclaim this label, turning the ‘jungle’ into a space of healing—a playground where we nurture our inner child. The jungle represents not only the untamed and raw but also a sanctuary of resilience, where healing is fostered through play, acceptance, and freedom.
In addition to photography and illustrations I also created 3d assets to represent Sami, these were displayed as an exclusive AR experience - Augmented reality offers hidden dimensions, like personal guidance, inspired by the "Ya Hu" concept—an ancient practice of invoking divine guidance through the heart.
This AR experience is a personal one, unlocked only by those who truly resonate with the essence of the project. Just like seeking guidance in personal experiences, the AR feature acts as a symbolic gateway into Sami’s world, enriching the narrative and deepening the connection to their story.
For the display, I used taglines such as “Not Your Political Playground” to emphasize the belief that bodies and self-expression should never be politicized. This is a space for reclaiming autonomy, and through Sami’s journey, we challenge the political appropriation of identity.
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