Bento of Memories:
Four Years, Four Ingredients

Editorial Design, Bookmaking
2023

“Bento of Memories” comprises four books, each themed around an ingredient, recounting my personal journeys and emotions from four years. “Tomato” reflects on 2020, marked by farewells and yearning for family, intertwining memories with recipes. “Maitake Mushroom” recalls a solitary dining experience in 2021, evoking Japan's serene forests through tempura. “Truffle” commemorates my 22nd birthday in 2022 with culinary indulgence. “Salmon” celebrates my family reunion in 2023, blending stories with a Salmon Poke Bowl recipe.

Awards

2024 Young Ones TDC, Finalist
2024 Print Awards, Students: Books: Entire Package, First Place

Bento of Memories: Tomato

5 x 5 x 5 inches, Arturo Soft White Paper, White Cardstock, Linen thread, Wool yard, Glue

“Tomato” is my profound reflection on my journey in 2020, once again in a foreign land, a year filled with farewells and longing for family. The handmade book's deckled edge texture evokes the touch of a real tomato, conveying a sense of warmth and home. It not only preserves my memories but also documents recipes that resonate with the longing for family, blending warm reminiscences with the flavors of delicious cuisine.

Link to view the Tomato book:
https://acrobat.adobe.com/link/track?uri=urn:aaid:scds:US:14e3a2b5-b527-3ba8-86a8-54a8049ecc54

Bento of Memories: Maitake

2 x 4 x 6.5 inches, Twill White Paper, Mixed Media Paper, Linen thread, Acrylic

“Maitake” is inspired by my summer 2021 omakase experience. Serving as the sole patron in the restaurant that evening, the tempura maitake mushrooms unveiled a captivating narrative about the tranquil forests of Japan and the enigmatic fungi that inhabit them. Through the artful design of this book, my objective is to transport readers into the very environment where maitake mushrooms flourish, facilitating a profound connection with the mystical allure of this natural realm.

Link to view the Maitake book:
https://acrobat.adobe.com/link/review?uri=urn:aaid:scds:US:ccf961a3-1470-3c48-9b3a-57a3c56f8ba4

Bento of Memories: Truffle

3 x 4.5 x 4.5 inches, Hamilco White Cardstock, Air-dry clay, Acrylic

"Truffle” is a semi-handcrafted creation commemorating my 22nd birthday dinner in 2022. Its primary objective is to capture the essence of the precious culinary treasure, the truffle. Additionally, it contains a detailed recipe for the highlight of that evening, a truffle-centric gourmet dish. It is designed to replicate the texture and quality of truffles, allowing readers to experience the mystique of truffles through both tactile and visual senses.

Link to view the Truffle book:
https://acrobat.adobe.com/link/review?uri=urn:aaid:scds:US:506fe65f-1074-377d-9e4b-000d600cb2ee

Bento of Memories: Salmon

3.5 x 15 inches, Twill White Paper, Translucent Paper, Nylon Monofilament Thread

“Salmon” is a scroll-shaped book centered around the theme of reunion. It captures the precious moments of 2023 when, after four years of separation, I joyfully reunited with my family. This book not only chronicles this special occasion but also features a collection of short stories, accompanied by the delightful addition of a Salmon Poke Bowl that serves as a palate-pleasing interlude in the narrative of life.

Link to view the Salmon book:
https://acrobat.adobe.com/link/review?uri=urn:aaid:scds:US:a976c2aa-81aa-37f4-927e-d31e1cf83767

Shiyao Wu