Global

Swiss-Japan Folklore Fusion: An Enriching Journey for ECAL Students in Tokyo

In an inspiring blend of Swiss precision and Japanese creativity, 14 students and four teachers from the ECAL Bachelor Media & Interaction Design Course recently embarked on a fascinating study trip to Japan. This journey provided an incredible opportunity to explore the rich tapestry of Swiss and Japanese folklore through the lens of modern media and interaction design.

A Unique Blend of Cultures

Under the guidance of Art-Science Manager Fiammetta Pennisi, the students spent ten days in Tokyo, from December 8 to 18. Their itinerary was packed with visits to iconic places and interactions with leading studios and schools specializing in game design, animation, computer graphics, and multimedia entertainment.

The "Folklore Fusion" Project

This exploration culminated in a presentation at the Embassy of Switzerland in Japan, where the students showcased their innovative project titled “Folklore Fusion.”

“Folklore Fusion” is an anime character design project that delves into the shared cultural heritage of Switzerland and Japan. By blending traits of Swiss icons with Japanese traditions, the students created 3D characters that reimagine and reinterpret the stereotypes of both cultures. This creative endeavor not only highlights the unique aspects of Swiss and Japanese folklore but also underscores the universal themes that connect these two distinct yet harmonious cultures.

Building Bridges Through Creativity

The character design journey undertaken by the ECAL students is a testament to the power of creativity in building bridges between nations. Through their work, they have explored and celebrated the cultural heritage of both Switzerland and Japan, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of each other’s traditions and art forms.

Testimonial

    During our course in Tokyo, our Media & Interaction Design students developed a CGI project fusing Swiss and Japanese folklore, creating culturally symbolic characters. This venture explored aesthetic narratives and digital identity, benefiting from interactions with technology leaders and explorations of Tokyo. It deepened our creative process and understanding of digital narratives, blending theory with practice. This experience notably improved students' skills and broadened our perspectives on digital creation's cultural and professional dimensions, celebrating folklore in the digital age.

    Pauline Saglio Head of Bachelor Media & Interaction Design, ECAL/University of Art and Design Lausanne

Looking Ahead

This remarkable trip would not have been possible without the warm welcome and support of numerous individuals and organizations. Special thanks go to Nanako Samamoto, Normand-Pierre Bilodeau, Miki Asatani, Ayumi Kano geb. Okamatsu, Takeshi Yamada, Prof. Yasuaki Kakehi, and Takayuki Moriyan. The potential for future collaborations is exciting, and we look forward to more opportunities for cultural exchange and creative exploration.

Congratulations are also in order for Fiammetta Pennisi, Kyoko Suzuki Marumo, Anne-Mai Do, and Hana Jäggi for orchestrating such an enriching and inspiring visit.

As we celebrate the success of this study trip, we eagerly anticipate welcoming more Swiss institutions and individuals eager to discover the wonders of Japan. The journey of cultural exchange and collaboration continues, promising more opportunities to add value to education, research, innovation, and startups.

Contact

    Fiammetta Pennisi

    Head of Art-Science
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