2021-2022
American Chinese (Restaurant)
Many Chinese restaurants in NYC first impressed me with those 80’s
old-style because the owners started their business for survival and
adapted the flavor to cater to American tastes. Around the topic of
“American Chinese Restaurant”, I conducted first-hand research and
interviews with my ABC (American-born Chinese) friends. Through the
investigation, I found that most Americans have stamped Chinese food
as “cheap stuff” since takeout boxes, posters, and even menus were
designed quickly and outdated. The font use and design aesthetic even
lack reference to authentic Chinese culture. This project aims to show
different aspects of Chinese restaurant stereotypes. The graphic book
will function as sarcasm to challenge the prejudiced attitude towards
the Chinese community and culture, while the layout and design of the
collage zine refer to some of the stereotyped styles. Being influenced
by Asian Hate, many western people’s impression about China are
turning negatively. So I hope my book can be a medium to change their
stereotypical mind about Chinese culture, food and community.