Faculty of Design

Graphic Design

Ynes Lin

Mater of Herbs

Mater (n.) is the Latin word for "mother," representing the origin, source, or mother-substance from which all things arise.In this project, it serves as a bridge to the historical concept of materia medica, honoring Traditional Chinese Medicine(TCM) as a profound gift from nature. I have selected ten common medicinal herbs, reimagining their visual identities based on their inherent properties, healing effects, and the "Five Colors and Five Organs"theory.By organizing these herbs into four classic prescriptions, the project transforms invisible medicinal energies into tangible visual forms. Through this visualization, the essence of TCM is no longer an abstract concept, but a visible that can be perceived and understood.As part of the project, I also designed an interactive experience that invite participants to step into the role of a traditional herbalist. After selecting a specific prescription, participants locate the corresponding ingredients within a traditional Chinese medicine cabinet. By opening the drawers to pick up visualized medicinal stickers, they simulate the authentic workflow of a tranditional herb shop. The experience culminates with participants using specially designed wrapping paper to pack their herbs using traditional packaging techniques, allowing them to take home as a personalized souvenir. By engaging in this hands-on ritual, participants can gain a deeper, more intuitive understanding of the artistry and heritage behind Traditional Chinese Medicine culture.