Court Ladies Preparing Newly Woven Silk
Name of the ProjectIndependent Project
LocationRaleigh,NC
Project DescriptionSoftware: Adobe Photoshop
Techniques: Mask, Adjustment, Puppet Warp, Image Integration
Year2024
Software and techniques used This project reimagines Court Ladies Preparing Newly Woven Silk, a famous artwork from the Song dynasty, by blending its historical aesthetic with contemporary fitness culture. The original painting captures the elegance and fluidity of women’s movement, which resonates with today’s workout experiences. Inspired by this connection, I created a series of posters for Keep, a well-known Chinese sports and fitness brand, integrating traditional art with modern workout equipment.
Campaign DesignMy RoleArt Direction, Visual Storytelling, Graphic Design
Target Audience
For young women, fitness is not only self-care, it’s a way to connect with others.
Design Problem
The key challenge was to merge the painterly texture and refined aesthetics of Song dynasty art with modern fitness equipment in a way that feels visually coherent and engaging. The added elements needed to appear naturally embedded in the scene, rather than disruptive, while still communicating contemporary fitness culture. The goal was to appeal to young audiences who value both personal expression and a stylish, social fitness experience.
Design Process
I began with background research on the painting and the brand, then sketched compositions to test how fitness gear aligns with the figures’ gestures. Using Photoshop masking, adjustment layers, and puppet warp, I integrated dumbbells, a massage gun, and a silent yoga mat into the artwork. Throughout the process, I focused on preserving the authenticity of the figures while reshaping their postures to reflect modern workouts in a playful way.
Dumbbell
Balanced design for strength, focus, and everyday training.
Massage Gun
Precise relief that restores energy and eases tensity.
Silent Mat
Quiet grip for steady, grounded movement.
Design Solution
The final posters emphasize the playful “time-travel” concept, where historical elegance meets modern discipline. This fusion highlights the continuity of movement as a cultural expression, from traditional social rituals to present-day fitness practices.
Design Impact
While not released commercially, the project demonstrates how cultural heritage can be reinterpreted through design storytelling to attract younger audiences. It reflects on how fitness, like art, carries both personal and social value, bridging tradition with modern lifestyle.