Graduate Thesis class with a word prompt: Authenticity.
Self-authored and illustrated, this tale of determination and problem-solving follows a curious mermaid as she explores the world. The story seeks to foster interest in STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math).
Approach
Initially a reimagining of Hans Christian Andersen’s the Little Mermaid, this story gives the mermaid the power to control her own destiny.
The illustrations were created as 3-dimensional collage. Public domain and “orphan” imagery (images with no known copyright) were cut by hand and stacked in space with natural elements like rocks, flowers, and leaves. Many of the images are from the era of Hans Christian Andersen.
Results
The narrative inspires curiosity in the audience and the unique structure of the book encourages younger children to engage with the act of reading.
