My project was to redesign the packaging of Zhenjiang Vinegar, a precious condiment from my hometown. This design meant a lot to me because not only did it represent a bridge between me and the wider world, but because I was unfamiliar with Chinese design, the task became a quiet and deeply self-reflective journey.
The choice of gradient from pink to green was intentional and aimed at breaking down traditional expectations of food packaging. This choice is not just aesthetic but also symbolic, aiming to break the stereotypes that often limit local products.
In addition, this design also has a special meaning for me personally: it is a response to the fact that my hometown is unknown, and a counterattack to the inferiority complex I feel due to the obscurity of my hometown. Coming from a small and often overlooked city, I often find myself needing to explain its place relative to larger, more famous places. Many people don’t know where Zhenjiang is, and with this redesign, I hope to put it on the map not just geographically, but in the hearts and minds of those who encounter its most famous flavors.
Zhenjiang Balsamic Vinegar’s packaging redesign wasn’t just about aesthetics; it was about telling a story and creating a connection. It celebrates Zhenjiang’s rich culture and history, presenting it to the world with new vitality. In doing so, the project transcends mere commercial design and embodies a narrative of cultural pride and personal identity.
