2023

Man Xian Ng

Hello! I am Xian, a designer based in London from Malaysia! Fueled by a passion for creativity and inspired by the diverse tapestry of my homeland. With a blend of traditional influences and contemporary design principles, I bring a unique perspective to my creations, aiming to bridge cultures and evoke emotions through my work. I am committed and curious to investigate new approaches and technology and to broaden my knowledge by challenging myself with each work!

The Disrupt – Baba Nyonya Culture

The Disrupt is a video project that is inspired by the Baba Nyonya culture, which is a mixture of the Chinese culture brought from China and the local culture in the Southeast Asian countries where the Chinese settled in the past, in addition to the influence of cultures from the European countries during colonisation. Through a blend of motion graphic design, inspired by the colours of Baba Nyonya culture, short scenes which offer the viewers a glimpse into the intricacies of the culture, as well as an original soundtrack composed using traditional Malaysian musical instruments and elements, create a deeper connection through audiovisual experience. This project aims to disrupt preconceived notions and encourage viewers to embrace the richness and diversity of our global community. By celebrating the kaleidoscope of colours, traditions, and experiences that shape us, I hope to inspire a sense of unity, appreciation, and empathy for one another.

The Disrupt – Baba Nyonya Culture
The Disrupt – Baba Nyonya Culture
The Disrupt – Baba Nyonya Culture
The Disrupt – Baba Nyonya Culture

The Grief

Grief hits us in unexplainable ways. Some days you’re alright, some days you’re not. There’s something you get past, and some things you lived through. But at the end of the day, it’s always there. Here’s what it looks like through my eyes.

In this project, I investigate the space that lies between life and death, with a personal connection to grief as the main focus. In this film project, I gathered pictures of my father and altered them to represent how things eventually disappear during the long grieving process, including their scent, their voice, and their faces. I also wanted to convey how grieving is a long-lasting process that may never cease, since it just very slowly, fades away.