“Laolao” (grandma)
Insight
This project reflects on my evolving relationship with my grandmother, exploring how our roles have shifted over time—from her being my protector to now being the one protected in the family.
Research Question
How can we nurture empathy and introspection about ageing, and caregiving? This project is rooted in my personal experience growing up with my grandma, inviting the audience to reflect on the tender, complex dynamics of family life and the quiet, changes that come with time.
full video - coming soon
Medium ····················· Charcoal animation
Year ······················································ 2024
Key shots
Why Charcoal animation?
Behind the Scenes
Charcoal animation is perfect for this story because its tactile textures and unpredictability mirror the raw, emotional nature of ageing and family dynamics.
While time-consuming, its hands-on quality brings authenticity and depth to the narrative.
Primary Research / Interview
I went through my family album and wrote a poem in English and Chinese.
as “A letter to my grandmother”
To best combine the photographs and text, I picked up a photo album from the charity shop and made a collage publication on the pages
As part of my research, I interviewed (chatted to) friends with multigenerational living experiences and backgrounds. Instead of a fixed questionnaire, I preferred personalised conversations. These dialogues went on for 30-50 mins, I gained a deeper understanding of the shared concerns we have towards ageing and farewell among our family members.
Interviews (chats) on multigeneration living
If you’re curious to explore more about the complexities of ageing and family
Check out these books/movies down below, which have shaped my personal understanding:
A Matter of Death and Life
by Marilyn Yalom & Irvin D. Yalom
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This book offers a glimpse into facing mortality and loss from the perspective of Irvin, a renowned psychotherapist, who spent his career helping others navigate grief—until he must counsel himself.
Through reflections on his final months with his beloved and his journey after, it’s a heartfelt exploration of love, loss, and the strength to move forward.
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Moi J'attends
by Davide Cali & Serge Bloch
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Life is like a red thread, weaving together the small, everyday moments that shape us from youth to old age.
With beautiful, expressive pencil strokes, it gently reminds us of the quiet beauty in life’s simplest moments—something we often overlook but are always there, if we take the time to see.
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I'm always curious to explore further!
If you have any book, movie, or exhibition recommendations, please share them below!
