The Expression of the Otherworld

For this project, Light developed an interactive icon website built around the theme of dreams. The work drew on references from Bloodborne , hypnotic visual language, and elements of Aboriginal visual culture, giving the project a symbolic direction grounded in atmosphere, pattern, and unease.

His research focused on how line, repetition, and circular form could communicate altered states, mystery, and tension. From there, he translated those references into a series of icon concepts that aimed to feel cohesive without becoming visually repetitive, using contrast and shape language to guide attention.

Iteration played a major role in the project. Light used peer feedback to refine the icons, strengthen their focal points, and push the overall system toward a more unified visual identity. That process reinforced an approach he still values: test ideas early, identify what resonates, and refine with intention rather than decoration.

As the icons evolved in Illustrator, the challenge shifted from individual quality to system coherence. He began evaluating how the pieces behaved next to each other, adjusting colour, emphasis, and layout so the final composition would read as a single designed experience rather than a loose collection of symbols.

In the final stages, Light refined the layout around a stronger central structure, allowing the key icons to anchor the composition while supporting icons reinforced the broader dreamlike tone. He also reflected on the potential for sound to deepen the work even further, particularly through more ambient or otherworldly audio choices.

Overall, the project demonstrated his ability to turn research into symbolic interface language. It sits as an early example of Light combining visual experimentation, thematic consistency, and iterative design into one cohesive interactive concept.