Nine-Color Deer is a picture book inspired by the Dunhuang mural Deer King Jataka. When I first saw the animated adaptation as a child, its bold colors, flowing compositions, and mythical atmosphere stayed with me. Years later, I revisited the original Buddhist story and transformed it into a contemporary visual narrative.

The visual style draws heavily from Dunhuang art — layered textures, earthy mineral-inspired palettes, and rhythmic compositions — while adapting them into a modern picture book flow. Each spread explores how ancient stories can still resonate with today’s readers and spark reflection.