Seal Sake Bottle Packaging
The main purpose of this project was to create a connection between certain subjects that can make someone feel vulnerable. Being an adult and liking things that are cute can make you vulnerable. Drinking alcohol makes you vulnerable. Topics of sexuality can make you vulnerable. There is a lot of risk in vulnerability, but it is also with that risk of danger that there is a risk of a genuine and positive connection. Connection with a person, with a culture, with an object. A connection you may not have realized you needed in order to feel like you belong.
Sticker Labels
A huge part of Japanese pop culture is the culture of “cute,” kawaii. This kawaii culture includes a world of cute mascots that range from the classic and iconic Hello Kitty, to the lazy bear Rilakkuma. For each sake label I designed an original mascot that is a cute seal that steals your sake when you aren’t looking.
Social Promo
Decorating the neck of each bottle is the Japanese art of shibari, Japanese rope tying. It is a hobby that is used in the kink community, and it is a respected form of art all on its own.
Photography
Netsuke are miniature sculptures originating from 17th century Japan. I made a netsuke of each mascot, and attached them to the bottle caps of each sake bottle.
Colors are based off of the natural hot springs of Japan during the cherry blossom season: Light blues, muted greens, pinks, and neutrals.
