top of page

Research Reflection

Set Design: The Fabric of Cultural Heritage
Production Plan LUFAN SHI INNOVATION FUND 2023_page-0035.jpg
Production Plan LUFAN SHI INNOVATION FUND 2023_page-0036.jpg

The set design for 'Sister Drum' unfolds into an immersive spectacle, an atmospheric space where the haunting essence of Chinese folklore horror is palpably felt. 

 

At the heart of this otherworldly proscenium, a drum of unparalleled artistry takes centre stage, its surface a canvas of ancient stories, beating under the hands of a woman whose intensity bridges the mortal and the infernal. She is the conduit, the storyteller, and the beating heart of this spectacle, ensnared within the theatre's embrace.

Production Plan LUFAN SHI INNOVATION FUND 2023_page-0039.jpg
Concept Art Final.jpg

The selection of a colour palette featuring red, orange, gold, and black for 'Sister Drum' was a strategic choice rooted in the rich connotations of Chinese folklore and the psychological influence on the audience. Red in Chinese culture symbolizes luck but also suggests the complexity of horror. Orange evokes transition, gold represents the spiritual or otherworldly, and black signifies the unknown, embodying the project's thematic darkness and mystery.

This decision aligns with Gilles Deleuze's perspective on colour's sensory impact, as he notes, "Colour acting upon the nervous system, upon the sense organs, creates a sensation that is before thought, a sensation is the ‘action of invisible forces on the body’” (Deleuze, 2003). Embracing Deleuze's insights, the chosen palette was intended to provoke an immediate, visceral response in viewers, engaging them on a level beyond conscious thought and drawing them into the haunting atmosphere characteristic of Chinese folklore horror.
 

Set Design 3D Model Render

 

The centrepiece of this eerie landscape is a profound intermingling of architecture and myth—a doorway facade that forms the main stage background, an amalgam of an ancient temple gateway and the foreboding entrance of a Chinese tomb. This scenic art, painstakingly rendered upon flats, serves as a portal to a realm that intertwines the living with the spectral. This backdrop serves as a portal to times long past, a threshold between worlds that bleeds into the present scene.

 

Suspended from above, an array of prosthetic skin dangles, an unsettling mimicry of decaying elegance that hangs like macabre drapery. This choice in decor sets a tone of discomfort, the suggestion of something unnatural lurking just beyond the veil of the ordinary.

 

On either side, maroon velvet curtains hang at oblique angles, their rich fabric pulling in the gaze and cocooning the space in a womb-like embrace. They are the veils between the act and the audience, parting slightly to offer glimpses of the enigma within.

 

Beneath it all lies the foundation of this ethereal stage—a black plywood floorboard, a void that drinks in the light. Upon this expanse,a talisman pattern has been intricately painted with glow-in-the-dark paint. Its edges bleed into the surrounding black vinyl floor tiles that complete the illusion of an endless abyss. It is only under specific lighting conditions that the talisman emerges, a phantom pattern glowing with an otherworldly light, symbolizing the drum is possessed by an ancient power.

 

At the nexus of these converging elements, the giant and exquisite drum commands the space, placed precisely at the centre of the talisman. 

Set Construction

The set construction for 'Sister Drum' is a meticulous process, marrying unconventional materials with traditional aesthetics to create an immersive backdrop for the narrative. The construction process is a symphony of resourcefulness and artistry, each step carefully planned to result in a set that breathes life into the tale of folklore and horror.

Production Plan LUFAN SHI INNOVATION FUND 2023_page-0046.jpg
Production Plan LUFAN SHI INNOVATION FUND 2023_page-0047.jpg

Roof Construction:

The base structure of the roof begins with the unlikely choice of corrugated plastic sheets. These sheets provide a lightweight yet sturdy foundation, upon which the greater intricacies of the roof can be built and stable onto the flats. Adapting to the needs of the set, pool noodles, are repurposed as the primary ribbing material. They are cut and shaped to mimic the traditional bamboo framework used in ancient Chinese architecture, a nod to authenticity through modern means.

Covering this framework is a skin of plaster, meticulously applied to achieve the texture and solidity of a roof weathered by time and tale. The plaster not only adds to the visual authenticity but also brings a certain gravitas to the lightweight structure, grounding it in the realm of the tangible.

The distinctive ‘flying eaves and circled angles’—the dramatic sweep that graces the corners of the roof—pose a challenge in their creation. Here, blocks of Polyfoam are sculpted with precision, their lightness allowing for the gravity-defying curves that characterize this traditional style. Once carved, these elements too are enrobed in plaster, ensuring that their appearance is seamless with the rest of the roof, a harmonious blend of form and function.

IMG_6043.JPG
IMG_6040.JPG
IMG_6045.JPG
IMG_6037.JPG
IMG_6046.JPG

Some Images From My Sketch Journal

Production Plan LUFAN SHI INNOVATION FUND 2023_page-0043.jpg

Scenic Art of Door Facade Panel:

The door panels envisioned as ancient guardians to the world beyond, start with plywood and pieces of corflute sheet. Into these sheets, the set builder carves intricate decoration patterns that I have designed, drawing inspiration from the grand entrances of Chinese temples and the solemn exits of tombs. These patterns, steeped in history and symbolism, are the silent narrators of tales untold. To bring depth and dimension to the flat surfaces, wood lattice panels are introduced, adding a layer of complexity to their interwoven design. 

Production Plan LUFAN SHI INNOVATION FUND 2023_page-0048.jpg
Production Plan LUFAN SHI INNOVATION FUND 2023_page-0049.jpg
Production Plan LUFAN SHI INNOVATION FUND 2023_page-0050.jpg

The ageing process of each panel is an art in itself. It begins with a base coat of paint, a foundation upon which years are built. Multiple layers follow each application a deliberate stroke of time's brush. The colors are chosen for their capacity to evoke antiquity. I applied techniques such as dry brushing, sponging, and sometimes even a light sanding between layers, to emulate the natural weathering process. 

Special attention is given to the play of light and shadow in the paintwork, ensuring that the textures crafted by the brushwork are enhanced when stage lighting casts its glow upon them. The end result is a facade that tells of the passage of time, a doorway that stands as a threshold between worlds.

Together, the roof and the door facade form a setting that is a testament to the ingenuity of the set construction team—a space where the stories of old are given a new stage, and where every element is a carefully crafted piece of the tale that 'Sister Drum' weaves.

Production Plan LUFAN SHI INNOVATION FUND 2023_page-0053.jpg
Production Plan LUFAN SHI INNOVATION FUND 2023_page-0054.jpg
Production Plan LUFAN SHI INNOVATION FUND 2023_page-0052.jpg
IMG_4533.JPG
Costume Design: Traditional Inspirations and Their Reverberations

The costume design for 'Sister Drum' plays a pivotal role in grounding the fantastical elements of the narrative into a visually cohesive and culturally resonant universe. At the epicentre of this ethereal proscenium, the drummer—cloaked in a costume that weaves tradition with the spectral—creates a visual anchor that is as much a part of the storytelling as the drumming itself.

 

The costume incorporates elements of traditional embroidery and the distinctive style of China's minor ethnic groups, whose clothing is characterized by its vibrant colours, unique patterns, and the remarkable craftsmanship that goes into every garment. The intricate patterns, steeped in symbolism, do more than adorn the fabric; they tell stories and represent the natural world and the spiritual journey of the wearer. 

Production Plan LUFAN SHI INNOVATION FUND 2023_page-0067.jpg
IMG_2834.jpg
IMG_5612.JPG
IMG_5611.JPG

I sought authenticity for my costume design, so I purchased a traditional attire from minority ethnic group in China.

This allowed me to closely examine and understand the unique styles and tailoring methods intrinsic to these cultural garments. 

By studying their intricate designs, fabric choices, and construction techniques in detail, I aimed to gather ample inspiration and practical insights. 

This research is a critical step in my process, ensuring that when I begin crafting my own costume prototype, it not only reflects the essence of traditional craftsmanship but also incorporates a level of authenticity and respect for cultural heritage.

Production Plan LUFAN SHI INNOVATION FUND 2023_page-0069.jpg
Production Plan LUFAN SHI INNOVATION FUND 2023_page-0070.jpg
Production Plan LUFAN SHI INNOVATION FUND 2023_page-0071.jpg


The costume's silhouette respects the traditional garb of Chinese ensembles but is adapted to accentuate the dramatic and the haunting aspects of the horror genre. Dramatic sleeves and bracelet that billow with each strike of the drum, add to the visual spectacle, enhancing the sense of otherworldliness and mystique.

 

The fabric choices are deliberate. Rich silks and brocades lend a luxurious texture that catches the light and shadow of the stage, while carefully placed panels of lighter materials allow for breathability and fluidity of movement.

 

Accessories complement the ensemble, with each piece—be it a headdress or jewellery — meticulously selected to add layers of meaning and splendour. The use of metal, beads, and even bones in these accessories could denote status or connection to the spiritual realm, further embedding the costume within the thematic fabric of the story.

 

The colour palette is adjusted to suit the atmospheric lighting of the set, ensuring that the costume not only stands out but also harmonizes with the overarching visual style of the production.

pROP creation:A Journey of Challenges and Triumphs

The hero prop for 'Sister Drum'—the drum itself—is a centerpiece that underpins the production's authenticity and visual impact. The transformation of this drum from a historical piece to a cinematic talisman was a journey that involved alteration, artistic collaboration, and meticulous design execution.

 

Acquisition and Historical Significance:

The journey began with the acquisition of the drum, a piece with its own storied past, from the Golden Dragon Museum in Melbourne. Crafted by the esteemed Wah Sing workshop in Kowloon, this drum not only carried the resonances of its own creation but also the cultural weight of the heritage it represents. Selecting such a drum ensured that the artefact at the heart of 'Sister Drum' had authenticity ingrained in its very wood and skin.

A meticulous examination was undertaken to ensure the preservation of its integrity while planning for the alterations needed to fit the film's aesthetic and functional requirements.

 

Nuo Opera Masks Integration:

Integral to the drum's transformation was the integration of Nuo opera masks into its surface. These masks, representing the interface between the human and spirit worlds in Chinese folklore, were custom-designed for 'Sister Drum' to infuse the prop with deeper narrative significance. Each mask was hand-carved by a skilled sculptor from China, ensuring that traditional methods were honoured in their creation.

 

Once the wooden masks were carved, they were entrusted to me for painting. Using Chinese folk art as a guide, I approached the task with a dual objective: to preserve the essence of the masks' traditional iconography and to align them with the film's visual narrative. This phase was a study of the intersection of tradition and innovation, applying age-old techniques to serve a new artistic vision. The painting process was steeped in the tradition of Chinese folk art—every stroke and colour choice was a deliberate act of storytelling. 

 

Below the striking facade of the drum, a lush fringe of red ostrich feathers was added. Aesthetically, it provided a dramatic contrast to the drum's surface, a vibrant burst that would animate with every beat and movement. Symbolically, feathers in Chinese culture are often associated with ascension and spiritual evolution, adding a layer of depth to the visual narrative. The choice of red, a color deeply embedded in Chinese folklore as one of joy and good fortune, served to underscore the horror elements with an ironic vibrance, making the drum not just an instrument but a character in its own right within the spectral world of 'Sister Drum'.

 

Through this transformative process, the drum transcended its role as a mere prop. Every beat of the drum in the film would now not only carry the weight of the narrative forward but also echo the intricate journey of its creation—a hero prop worthy of the tales it was set to tell.

 

 

 

 

Production Plan LUFAN SHI INNOVATION FUND 2023_page-0023.jpg
Production Plan LUFAN SHI INNOVATION FUND 2023_page-0055.jpg
IMG_0189 copy.jpg
Production Plan LUFAN SHI INNOVATION FUND 2023_page-0026.jpg
Production Plan LUFAN SHI INNOVATION FUND 2023_page-0059.jpg


I crafted drumsticks shaped like bones using durable plastic to ensure they would withstand the rigorous use by actors.

 

To enhance their realism, I painted them a rich brown hue. For added sophistication and detail, I adorned them with aged aluminium pieces, intricately engraved, making the drumsticks not only functional but also exquisite in appearance.

IMG_3545_1.jpg
IMG_3543_1.jpg
IMG_3546_1.jpg
IMG_4540.JPG

In a captivating moment within the scene, the drum's surface begins to fracture and bleed, mirroring the texture of human skin, especially as the actor's drumming intensifies and the performance takes on a more frenzied and possessed nature.

DSC_0389 copy.jpg
Screenshot 2023-10-26 at 11.21.08 pm.png
Production Plan LUFAN SHI INNOVATION FUND 2023_page-0061.jpg
Production Plan LUFAN SHI INNOVATION FUND 2023_page-0062.jpg

 

To achieve this illusion, I embarked on a meticulous design process:

 

1. Material Exploration: I initially procured two types of silicone sheets: a clear thin silicone sheet and a tattoo practice fake skin silicone sheet. After experimentation, I found the skin silicone sheet to be too thick for the desired effect.

  

2. Drum Surface Preparation: I chose the clear thin silicone sheet, adhering it to the drum's surface. Over this, I brushed on latex, creating a tactile, skin-like texture. This provided a foundation for subsequent detailing.

 

3. Color Integration: Using a combination of brown and black paints, I seamlessly blended the silicone's appearance into the existing aged drum surface, ensuring the transition appeared natural.

 

4. Creating the Cracked Effect: To mimic the appearance of fractured skin, I made incisions in the silicone sheet. Surrounding these cuts, I applied skin wax, enhancing the three-dimensionality and mimicking the elasticity of real skin.

 

5. Final Detailing: I then accentuated the injured look by applying shades of purple and red makeup around the fissures, simulating the bruising and inflammation of a wound. The final touch was the application of fake blood, giving the drum the visceral appearance of a fresh wound.

 

The resulting effect was both haunting and mesmerizing, underscoring the intensity of the scene.

SFX MAKEUP Design

In collaboration with my SFX artist, Briana Garbutt, we meticulously designed and executed a "Skin Peeling Off" makeup look, structured in four distinct phases. Here's a detailed breakdown of our creative process:

All_phases_makeup_plan_page-0001.jpg
All_phases_makeup_plan_page-0002.jpg
All_phases_makeup_plan_page-0003.jpg
All_phases_makeup_plan_page-0004.jpg

 

1. Conceptual Discussion: Our initial conversations revolved around understanding the desired effect and its significance in the context where it was to be used. This foundational discussion set the tone for the look we aimed to achieve, allowing for a shared vision between Briana and me.

 

2. Material Selection: Given the intricate nature of the effect, we delved into researching and selecting the most appropriate materials. Ensuring the right texture, elasticity, and visual resemblance to real skin was paramount.

 

3. Prototyping: Before finalizing the look, we created several test versions to refine the technique. This iterative process allowed us to make adjustments based on appearance and wearability, ensuring both aesthetic and functional success.

 

4. Final Execution: With our research, discussions, and tests as a foundation, we moved into the final phase: the application of the makeup look. By this stage, we had a clear roadmap of the techniques to employ and materials to use, leading to a seamless and convincing "Skin Peeling Off" effect.

 

This collaboration not only allowed us to create a visually striking effect but also demonstrated the value of teamwork and iterative design in the realm of special effects makeup.

Production Plan LUFAN SHI INNOVATION FUND 2023_page-0073.jpg
Production Plan LUFAN SHI INNOVATION FUND 2023_page-0075.jpg
Production Plan LUFAN SHI INNOVATION FUND 2023_page-0076.jpg

© 2023 by Lufan Shi

bottom of page