Burning paper offerings (such as paper mansions and paper maids) is an age-old tradition stemming from superstitious beliefs of the past. However with advancement in science and in the modern context, it has lost its original ritualistic value. Chinese youths are no longer interested and do not see the value in partaking in such rituals. And many of them (like myself) think that it is a gaudy flaunting of false filial piety. After all, there is more worth in being filial to your parents/family when they are actually alive.

What is interesting about this project is that it brings back some elements of this culture, yet inject it with a contemporary but personal touch. I like the emotional value that is created when you go through the process of printing these items and personalising it with mementos from your relationship with the departed loved one. It is an experience that is sentimental and unique. Perhaps, this would make such tradition relevant again to the youths today and bring back the significance of festivals, such as Qin Ming, when people pay tribute to the dead.

Still, these printout offerings do look so much better than the traditional ones, which generally look cartoon-ish. Though I notice they did not come up with printable dollar notes, ha!