Hoi An illustration

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Inspired by the same motives as my previous ‘Saigon Compass’ illustration I wanted to learn about the history of Hoi An whilst mixing modern day scenes and culture in the process of creating this design.  The goal was to create a cohesive image, inspired by the map of the ancient town to remember and celebrate it’s iconic rich and historical past.

Studying the map I noticed the streets made the shape of a boat similar to that of the ones that still line the riverside today. The foundation of Hoi An’s history is based on the fact it was a major port town and attracted visitors from Japan, Europe, China and India.  Around this shape I saw a large fish or whale, as if protecting or guiding the boat. Whales, known as ‘Ca Ong’ or ‘lord fish’ have a deep history in Vietnamese culture. They appear in legends and stories passed down of stranded fishermen being rescued by the sea creature, guiding them to safety.

In this image I am using the illusion of a whale and a boat to symbolize protection around the ancient town with it’s beautiful temples and architecture. In the surrounding areas the collaged illustrations pay homage to the outside influences from the Japanese to the left and the Chinese to the right. In the center you can see the multi-cultural melting pot that is modern Hoi An.

Dotted on the whale almost like old barnacles on a ship are buildings and temples that particularly took my eye whilst walking around. Keeping in the theme of the map they are placed geographically where they are in real life so if you took this illustration to each part of the town you should find the pictured building. Around the very outer edge of the illustration to the left you have the Japanese side which is similar to the set up of the town.

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Limited edition of 50 digital reproductions, signed and numbered by the artist - SOLD OUT - Through March Gallery, Hoi An.