Date on Senior Honors Thesis
5-2025
Document Type
Senior Honors Thesis
Degree Name
B.A.
Department
Fine Arts
Committee Chair
Trysh Wahlig
Author's Keywords
Mahjong; Creative Thesis
Abstract
This design project explores the creation of a Riichi Mahjong set that bridges the traditional cultural heritage of the game with modern design, aimed at introducing the game to new audiences. Riichi Mahjong, a variant of the traditional Chinese Mahjong game, has evolved significantly over the centuries. This project focuses on the development of a visually appealing and functional set that enhances a player’s experience, while staying true to the historical roots of Mahjong. The design uses careful selection of color schemes and symbols, such as the use of both Chinese characters and Arabic numerals to encourage recognition and learning for English-speaking players. Each tile design was made to be both distinct and harmonious in the broader set.
The packaging and instruction manual were carefully made to create a game accessible to newcomers. The instructions are concise yet informative, employing visual cues to enhance clarity. The packaging was adjusted throughout the process to optimize space and usability, resulting in a simple presentation that contrasts yet respects historical packaging conventions.
This project demonstrates the power of design thinking in reinterpreting traditional games for contemporary contexts, ensuring that cultural heritage is preserved while allowing for approachability for new players. This project illustrates how traditional games can be thoughtfully reinterpreted for a global, contemporary audience.
Recommended Citation
Ahnemiller, Isabel L., "Design Dogma: Redefining Tradition and Innovation Through Mahjong." (2025). College of Arts & Sciences Senior Theses. Paper 340.
Retrieved from https://ir.library.louisville.edu/honors/340
Lay Summary
This project focuses on creative a modern, accessible Riichi Mahjong set that honors traditional design while making a more approachable game for new players. The centuries-old game has a unique system of tiles and symbols, and this project explores designing these tiles to be visually appealing and easy to understand.
The goal was to simplify aspects of the game without removing its rich cultural heritage. Key design decisions include maintaining important traditional elements (such as Chinese characters), and refining symbols on the tiles to be more intuitive.
In addition to the tiles, this project also addresses packaging and instructions for the game, ensuring the set is not only visually engaging, but also easy for new players to navigate. The instruction book was designed to be beginner friendly, and focuses on clarity and simplicity.
By blending traditional elements with contemporary design, this project provides a new space for people to experience Riichi Mahjong, making it accessible for a broader audience, while respecting the game's historical roots.
