i of the tiger

Inspired by the iconic Bengal Tiger found in India, this design served as the prototype for the rest of the TiGERS. I wanted its upright pose to stay true to the tiger’s form with a protruding chest reflective of bravery. The stripes on the Bengal were derived from geometric Mughal patterns applied as intersecting rhombi.

This whimsical creature was inspired by the rare White Tiger ( a Bengal subspecies). I wanted it to have a playful vibe that reflected creativity and openness. Its pose is also quite different from rest of the TiGERS speaking to its inherent nature to go against the grain. The stripes on this cat were derived from diamond-like Phulkari patterns.

Inspired by an extremely rare variant of the South China Tiger. The overall pose was simplified so that it retained its geometric simplicity but still projected an image of a tiger in stealth mode. A creature that‘s well-aware of its surroundings. The stripes were derived from geometric Chinese patterns reflecting classic blue white porcelain.

Inspired by the Siberian tiger (Amur tiger), the largest of the tiger subspecies. Living in extreme conditions, this mighty beast is bulkier and a force to be reckoned with. The soft tones emphasize its wintery habitat. The stripes derived from Kufic architectural motifs found in Central Asia create a maze-like pattern.

The spirit of protection awakens to reveal the Great Guardians inspired by the five South East Asian subspecies — the defenders of the oppressed. They are a derivative of the Lion Capital of Ashoka — a symbol of power, courage and confidence. I wanted each TiGER to have its own unique look, with a different pattern abstracted from those found in South East Asian textiles.

Inspired by the Caspian Tiger (extinct in the wild). It’s natural habitat extended from eastern Turkey all the way to Xinjiang. The design serves as a homage to the beautiful handmade carpets found in that region while speaking to the negative impacts of poaching (the double entendre of the tiger skin). A metaphor to represent all those who have fought (and continue to fight) for social justice putting others before themselves.

This one-of-a-kind TiGER was inspired by mythical tigers across the world. A fusion of imagination and reality, this creature was meant to represent the spiritual realm. Its elongated form resembles that of a dragon further elevating its rare and mystical qualities.

As the protector of identity, the Sacred Storyteller was inspired by prehistoric tigers from the Ice Age. It represents the traditions and stories of our ancestors. Adding the elongated sabre-tooth was a design decision made to instantly connect this TiGER with its historic origins. The stripes were derived from timeless cross-cultural bricks found around the world.