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Yihang Zhao

BFA in Illustration - Entertainment Arts — Illustration

Meregrot

This project is a character-driven visual development exploration inspired by coastal folklore and emotional mythology. Set in a deteriorating fishing village, it follows a pearl diver and a mysterious mermaid, using storytelling through design to explore sacrifice, transformation, and sorrow. The work focuses on character design, supporting visuals such as posters and props, and building a poetic underwater world filled with quiet emotion.
Learning Outcomes:
In this project, I explored the fusion of Chinese ink painting with contemporary visual development techniques.Through character design, composition, and stylization, I learned how to express emotion using softness, abstraction, and minimal color.This process helped me find a personal visual voice—one that draws from tradition while telling new stories.
Project Website:
https://www.siriuszhao.com/meregrot