Faculty of Design
Graphic Design
Yiting Shu
Nüshu Community
Graphic Design
2023
Nüshu has been known as a writing system created and used by women in a remote part of China. This secret language gave women the power to express their sadness and hopes in an era that barred them from political and social life. It is not just a script − it represents a typical Chinese traditional female culture. It is also a culture of sunshine that allows women to speak their own statements and against male chauvinism.The app serves two primary functions: translation and legal/medical support for women, particularly those living in rural areas. The translation feature utilizes an interactive and educational approach to promote the preservation and learning of Nüshu. Through the camera recognition technology, users can capture and translate objects into Nüshu, or they can directly translate words. By exploring the complexity of language, users can gain a deeper understanding of the gender oppression prevalent in Chinese history and how Nüshu empowered women of that time to make their own statements. The app not only provides an introduction to the language and its cultural significance but also seeks to connect individuals from diverse backgrounds to the Nüshu community. In addition, the app offers legal and medical aid specifically tailored to women in rural communities, where access to these resources may be limited. We strive to create a safe and accessible space for all women through our app.
Celebrate the work of OCAD U’s class of 2022/2023!