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Project

Once Upon a Time

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Personal Project

Illustration

Maria Elena Wong

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Background

The purpose was to reimagine my favorite classic fairy tales with an elegant, more sophisticated twist, while still capturing the magic and whimsy that makes these stories so timeless. Fairy tales are often deceptively simple on the surface, yet they carry profound meanings and lessons that resonate on a deeper level. The simplicity of these stories allows them to be universally understood, while the hidden layers of symbolism, moral lessons, and emotional depth make them timeless.

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Strategy

The approach was to craft illustrations that capture the essence of magic and wonder through soft, simple lines, all while preserving the simplicity that makes these fairy tales so unforgettable. By giving them a “refined” spin, I was able to balance more intricate visuals, and elevate the narrative while preserving the essence of the original tales. Each scene was designed to be rich with hidden details, highlighting the most memorable moments of the story—or even encapsulating the entire tale—inviting a sense of joy, curiosity, and discovery.