In Conversation with Maomao Ding: The Vision and Culture Behind Traces

Traces is a project that feels deeply meaningful to me. It was created to bring visibility to the Miao ethnic group in China, whose culture, language, and traditions are at risk of being forgotten. I submitted this work because I wanted to share their story on a larger platform.

Winning this award is a recognition not only of the design itself, but also of the care and research that went into it. Personally, it encourages me to continue creating work that reflects cultural narratives. Professionally, it affirms that thoughtful, research-driven storytelling still holds a strong place in the design world.

The idea for Traces came from the phrase “everything that disappears leaves a trace.” I was drawn to the richness of the Miao people's culture, including their traditional dress, patterns, head decorations, and colors, but I also realized how little visibility their heritage has today.

I wanted to design something that not only preserved their history but also made it interactive and accessible to a modern audience. In today's industry, where speed and surface-level trends often take priority, I think this project represents the importance of slowing down, doing deep research, and designing with care and intention.

What set Traces apart was its layered storytelling and attention to cultural detail. It wasn’t just a visual design project; it was a piece of interactive publishing that invited readers to experience a disappearing culture through texture, interactivity, and history.

I focused on using visual language in a respectful, research-informed way, bringing in authentic patterns, symbols, and design structures from the Miao tradition without turning them into decoration. That level of sensitivity and research, combined with a strong visual execution, gave the project depth.

The biggest challenge was making sure the representation was accurate and respectful. I didn’t want to make assumptions or simplify anything for aesthetic purposes. I spent a lot of time in the research phase, reading ethnographic studies, reviewing traditional garments and artifacts, and reaching out to individuals familiar with Miao heritage.

The more I learned, the more the design evolved. It was important to let the research lead rather than force a concept that wasn’t grounded in reality. That approach helped the project grow into something much more thoughtful and layered.

This award is a personal milestone. It reinforces the kind of work I want to do moving forward: projects that center culture, memory, and community. I’ve started to connect with more creatives and organizations interested in using design to tell underrepresented stories. It’s encouraging to know that this kind of work resonates with others, and it inspires me to keep exploring similar directions.

The feedback I’ve received has been thoughtful and encouraging. Many people shared that they had never heard of the Miao people before encountering this project, and that the format helped them understand the depth and beauty of the culture. A few even asked how they could learn more or support similar efforts.

Start with something you genuinely care about. The work will feel more honest and grounded, and that comes through in the final result. Be intentional with every choice, from research to visuals to interaction. Pay attention to the story you’re telling, not just the design you’re making. Lastly, don’t rush. Some of the strongest projects take time to grow and change. Give yourself room to experiment and revise.

I think the design industry is moving toward greater inclusivity and cultural awareness, which is exciting. At the same time, technology is changing how we design and who has access to design tools. In the future, I want to continue working at the intersection of culture and storytelling, using technology to make hidden or overlooked histories more visible and engaging for broader audiences.

It’s natural to hesitate, especially if your project feels small or personal. But those are often the projects that resonate the most. Don’t wait for your work to feel perfect. If you believe in the story you’re telling and the care behind it, it deserves to be shared. Competitions like this are less about showing off and more about finding others who care about the same things.

Stay open, stay curious, and keep supporting each other. The most powerful work often comes from listening to different voices and learning from different perspectives. There is room for many types of stories in this field, and every voice has something valuable to offer.

This project is dedicated to the Miao community and to everyone who took the time to share their knowledge and history with me during the research process. Without their contributions, this project would not exist.

Traces is an interactive publication that honors the beauty and complexity of Miao culture through design, that preserves and invites discovery.

I’m continuing to work on projects that explore identity and culture through design during my free time. I’m also interested in experimenting with new formats that blend interaction, narrative, and education. Whatever comes next, I hope it continues to make space for overlooked stories and brings people closer to traditions they may not have known before.