Faculty of Design

Material Art & Design

Lei Zhang

Vermilion Bird(朱雀)

The Vermilion Bird represents the south and summer and the element of fire. It is usually described as a red phoenix or a large bird with gorgeous feathers and a long tail. It is generally depicted as spreading its wings to fly, a sign of auspiciousness and a source of happiness, regarded as a mascot and guardian god. It is said that the Vermilion Bird can carry human desires to heaven and bring back good luck and prosperity. I selected feathers and red features to design the constellation Vermilion Bird.

“I selected feathers and red features to design the constellation Vermilion Bird. I created a mechanical device that can swing on the shoulder, highlighting the image characteristics of the Vermilion Bird. Then, I designed a back chain with feather elements, a three-dimensional linear earring structure, and a front necklace part. Finally, use the textile weaving technique to make the braided rope connecting the earrings and the pauldron. I read some books to look for a compatible weaving method from Chinese, Celtic & ornamental knots for beaded jewellery and Chinese knots for beaded jewellery In addition, many red gemstones are used, such as red garnet, semi-porous agate beads and ammolite.”