design matters

Appropriate Design, not Appropriated Design

As Asian-Americans, Howng and Choi are astutely aware of how orientalist, stereotypical, and culturally appropriated motifs commonly found in design have historically been used as low-key signifiers for “Asian” things. Such graphics are commonly featured in signage for Asian restaurants, businesses, and demarcation to typecast neighborhoods, perpetuating signifiers that marginalize AAPI communities. With our project, we want to model design that does not use reductive stereotypes as markers for an area of “Asian” significance and instead demonstrates mindful and thoughtful design that reflects a revolving cultural heritage, diasporic roots, and inclusivity of all the multi-faceted and diverse communities living and working in the area.