What Shapes Us
What Shapes Us
Unfold Layers
Unfold Layers

Many Vietnamese immigrants experience an invisible gap due to language barriers, as traditional ca dao (folk songs) and tuc ngu (proverbs) gradually fade among younger generations. Unfold the Layers book design serves as a bridge between older and younger generations by reinterpreting the cultural values of ca dao and tuc ngu through contemporary visual language. By experimenting with materials, typography, and imagery, the book invites readers to slow down, reconnect with each metaphor, and experience ca dao & tuc ngu beyond their literal meanings.

Many Vietnamese immigrants experience an invisible gap due to language barriers, as traditional ca dao (folk songs) and tuc ngu (proverbs) gradually fade among younger generations. Unfold the Layers book design serves as a bridge between older and younger generations by reinterpreting the cultural values of ca dao and tuc ngu through contemporary visual language. By experimenting with materials, typography, and imagery, the book invites readers to slow down, reconnect with each metaphor, and experience ca dao & tuc ngu beyond their literal meanings.

3 months

Challenge: Designing and producing a non-standard book format while combining materials with different textures, weights, and printing requirements.

Solution: Created small-scale prototypes, conducted multiple print tests, and experimented with different materials to refine the book’s structure, visual presentation, and tactile experience before final production.

Deliverables: A tactile book that combines a variety of materials, visual concepts, and imagery to evoke Vietnamese culture and explore its connection to ca dao tục ngữ (traditional Vietnamese folk songs and proverbs).

Outcome: Created an experience where Vietnamese-American and Vietnamese audiences reconnect with their cultural heritage through tactile materials, visual metaphors, and imagery inspired by Vietnamese traditions.

Tools: Illustrator • Photoshop • Photography • Laser-cutting

Outcome: Created an experience where Vietnamese-American and Vietnamese audiences reconnect with their cultural heritage through tactile materials, visual metaphors, and imagery inspired by Vietnamese traditions.

Special Thanks to Professor Chang-Sik Kim • Professor Connie Hwang

Minh Khue Pham
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let's collab

Have a design project in mind? Whether you need branding, marketing visuals, digital design, or creative support, share your ideas through the contact form and let’s bring them to life.


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