MatterFact x Adan 阿丹
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The Laughing Buddha in Ink: Meet illustrator Adan
MatterFact’s debut artist collaboration celebrates the art of everyday contentment
When MatterFact approached Wenzhou-based illustrator Adan for a collaboration, her reaction was immediate:
"My first thought was surprise and curiosity!"
The centrepiece is her Laughing Buddha artwork—a pen-and-ink reinterpretation of the traditional Maitreya Buddha. For Adan, this project bridges art and childhood nostalgia:
"I remember during Lunar New Year, every household would put up cheerful fortune god posters—that festive atmosphere was truly infectious."
"My artistic style centres on printmaking and pen drawing, prioritizing precise lines, stark black-white contrasts, and layered textures."
Her signature technique uses dense hatching and negative space to create dramatic light/shadow, embodied in the Laughing Buddha:
"It’s an attempt to reinterpret tradition through a modern lens—keeping the Buddha’s Zen wisdom while adding blessings of abundance."
To Adan, this collab aligns art with daily life:
"True wealth might be the contentment symbolized by the Laughing Buddha. When MatterFact chose this design for their debut, it felt fitting—because the joy of dressing up is itself a ‘small happiness’ in everyday life."
Creating Laughing Buddha was both technical and emotional:
"I especially emphasized the meaning of ‘laughingly receiving the world’s blessings.’"
She merged traditional New Year print aesthetics with contemporary linework to convey ease:
"I hope this collaboration lets more people see my work, allowing the Laughing Buddha to spread happiness."
Adan’s artistic mission is deeply human:
"To make art an ‘accessible healing tool.’"
Her upcoming projects prioritize interaction:
"For example, I’d love to create immersive exhibitions where viewers can modify my digital murals or swap Buddha expressions with their own smiles—art should be playful."
We love Adan’s artwork and passion for creativity, we’re delighted that she agreed to collaborate with MF for our first release!
The Laughing Buddha tee – MatterFact’s first ever artist collab release – is available as a strictly limited edition drop; 50pcs will be available in a presentation box, along with a stamped & numbered print.
Launch date : Out now (¥399)
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