Doha: In celebration of its first anniversary, the National Museum of Qatar (NMoQ) held a Dugong Mascot Design competition that was open for submissions from both local and international artists. The competition gained traction from artists around the globe as 40 artworks were received and reviewed by the jury based on creativity, originality, and themes of sustainability and heritage.
In the announcement of the winning concept, a Filipino resident in Qatar was chosen as the victor. As a graphic designer from the Philippines, Gaylord Salonga, commonly referred to as "Choy", bagged the award on the Dugong Mascot Design competition.
"I was really surprised. I know every participant's goal was to win, so everyone did their best. Every submission is also unique, so I am very thankful that my entry was chosen as the winner," Choy said.
Back home, Choy's interest for arts and design is rooted from a childhood hobby of reading local comics with his family and friends. He was also an active participant in designing a mascot made out of paper mache for a local celebration in Cavite city, a province in the Luzon island of the Philippines, called "The Bangenge Festival".
Apart from mascot designing, Choy is also keen in creating caricature works and digital illustrations, which he shares on his social media platforms.
With an apt background for the craft, Choy shared his creative process in designing the mascot. From its personality to its unique features, Choy laid down all the traits to build its character.
"My idea of the Dugong Mascot was that it enjoys spending time both being isolated and with friends. It makes sure that it uses time effectively. Alone, you will find the Dugong Mascot reading, researching, and seeking knowledge to save the environment," Choy narrated.
With the technicalities of designing a mascot, Choy also mentioned that he had to consider how a person can wear and move comfortably in it. "I had to adjust its tails, but also had to make sure to retain its shape. I had a lot of ideas. The more I researched, the more revisions I made. It is hard to say when the job is done until the day, I had to submit it."
NMoQ's architectural details was also given tribute as Choy incorporated a rose motif to the mascot's fins given the fact that the world-renowned museum was designed based on the complex form of the desert rose.
Speaking about how the Dugong relates to sustainability, Choy pointed out that the Dugong itself serves as its symbol.
"I think the Dugong itself already symbolizes sustainability. Now that its few in number, it plays such an even vital role." He also highlighted how Qatar represents the same value as the state continues to strive for sustainability and having been recognized in the process.
As an artist, Choy shared a simple takeaway during his creative process for the competition. "For my artwork to represent NMoQ is truly rewarding and such a great blessing. Before I decided to enter the competition, I knew the chosen design will carry a big message so it will not be easy. Despite this, do not let that pressure and mental block stop you. Enjoy while designing a mascot just as how the mascot should give smile to other people," Choy said
