Set in the world of Neo-Asia, this project explores the concept of "forgotten spirits" born from technological gadgets becoming Yokai—supernatural entities from Japanese folklore. These characters represent modern human fixations and anxieties, personified through intricate 3D designs and digital storytelling. The visual direction takes inspiration from the aesthetic of traditional Japanese Karuta cards, blending classic graphic layouts with futuristic themes.
SHISEN is a no-gender Yokai that embodies the omnipresence of surveillance. Often found individually or in groups at the top of electric light poles, they stare at everything they see. Their purpose remains unknown, as does the number of recordings they collect. The character’s design features an eyeball pattern on the kimono jacket to represent the infinite amount of CCTV in modern towns, while eye tattoos on the hands provide a mythical link to the Yokai’s power over the past, present, and future. SHISEN exists as a neutral force that may be an ally or an enemy, constantly watching from the shadows.
Born from notification addiction, the Notification Eater is a nocturnal Yokai that preys on the digital habits of its victims. It crawls into beds at night and prevents sleep until it is fed as many likes, tweets, and notifications as it desires. This creature is presented as a primary cause of digital-age insomnia, returning night after night as long as a phone remains active during the dead of night. Its presence serves as a commentary on the "hunger" for social validation and the disruption of natural rest by constant digital connectivity.
This series features collaborations with Maaike Van Den Abbeele for outfit designs, bridging the gap between digital fashion and character lore.
