The Dragon Icon
Fighting the Hate
Role
Direction / Design
To redesign the Chinese dragon symbol to empower Asian Americans and to inspire a love for their culture.
Intention
Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic rise in Asian hate crimes began to rise and so did a negative hit on Asian-owned businesses.
Organizations such as @welcome.to.chinatown emerged to support and inform the Asian community in NYC of resources, events, and news to empower those we love.
Insight
Process:
Initial Sketches
Final Symbol Designs
Asian American Pride
Two dragons are interlocked depicting a lucky knot to represent the tight-knit Asian Community that protects one another.
Symbolizing:
Empowerment & Strength
Asian American Culture
Depicting a dragon heating up some tea with a big bao, this symbol is designed to inspire love for ones culture, such as food, which is a common way for Asian-Americans share their love for one another.
Symbolizing:
Respect & Gratitude
Asian LGBTQ+ Pride
Two rainbow dragons referencing the LGBTQ+ flag, face each other and proudly show their colors to the world. Oftentimes, Asians in queer communities are overlooked in representation, so this symbol was designed to be shown off in pride.
Symbolizing:
Love & Expression
COVID-19 Vaccination Encouragement
During the pandemic, Asian hate crimes were rising because of COVID-19. This symbol represents the Asian community’s support for vaccinations and safety measures.
