Sounds of Taiwan Cicada

Using various media, the project “Sounds of Taiwan Cicada” is based on nine different cicada species in Taiwan, as well as on the country’s traditional toy of the bamboo cicada, which it transforms into a modern electronic version. For the visual design, the sound of real cicada chirps was analysed and categorised into three major frequencies, which were then translated into different colours and shapes by means of graphically abstracted patterns and illustrations. The packaging houses a handy electronic toy which, like the original cicada toy, is held on a string and gives off the typical sound of a cicada. An enclosed brochure and e-book describe the life cycle of the individual cicadas and provide a realistic insight into their appearance and life via photographs. A centrefold in the book, when spread open, includes on one side a detailed introduction to all nine species of cicadas and, on the other side, along a branch, visualises the different stages in the growth process of a cicada in a clear and easy-to-understand manner.