Gilded Fractures
Editorial Publication Design
Gilded Fractures explores Chinese diasporic identity through typography, materiality and publication design. Inspired by fractured porcelain and kintsugi, the publication transforms an academic text into an editorial experience where typography becomes the primary form of image-making.
Challenge
Transform a prescribed academic text into a commercially viable editorial publication using typography, image-making and production techniques. The objective was to communicate the text's key ideas through expressive typography, image-making and editorial layout while developing a cohesive visual narrative. The publication also required consideration of format, binding, paper stock and production methods to create a resolved publication suitable for commercial production.
Concept
Rather than treating fracture as damage, the publication reinterprets it as a symbol of resilience and cultural reconstruction. Drawing inspiration from kintsugi and Chinese blue-and-white porcelain, recurring fractured typography and gilded linework create a visual narrative of identity, belonging and adaptation. The piece was designed intentionally for readers to experience cultural identity through the physical act of reading the publication itself.
Design Language
Typography
Large-scale Bodoni letterforms become the primary image-making device, fragmented and layered to communicate ideas of separation and reconstruction.
Colour
Porcelain blue, warm ivory and gold create a restrained palette inspired by traditional Chinese ceramics.
Composition
Generous white space and repeated fractured motifs guide the reader through the publication while balancing expressive editorial layouts with readability.
Production
Format
A5 editorial publication designed to encourage an intimate reading experience.
Binding
Exposed section-sewn binding with gold thread reinforces the concept of repair by making the construction part of the narrative.
Materials
Smooth coated and textured uncoated stocks contrast polished imagery with archival tactility.
Result
The final publication transforms a prescribed academic text into an immersive editorial experience, using typography as the primary image-making device. Through fractured forms, restrained colour and considered production methods, the publication encourages readers to reflect on identity, belonging and cultural reconstruction while maintaining clarity across a long-form editorial format.
Reflection
This project challenged me to think beyond page design and instead create an editorial experience where typography, materiality and production worked together as one communication system. It reinforced the value of using physical production decisions to strengthen conceptual storytelling.
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