Motion Design Title Sequence Depicts Geisha Love Story Set in 19th Century Kyoto
In January 2019, a motion design project titled 'KIYOMI KOBAYASHI' was created by Yi Le, director and co-founder of Loop LOOP Studios based in Shanghai, China. The work presents an opening title sequence that tells the narrative of a geisha named Kobayashi and her lover Hideyoshi in 1872 Kyoto. Their romance is disrupted by war, leading to permanent separation. The project aims to highlight the harsh realities of conflict and the societal position of women during that historical period. Yi Le developed this artistic piece following a visit to Kyoto, where he was inspired by the city's preserved temples, gardens, and traditional atmosphere, including observations of geishas in the Gion district. The sequence is accompanied by a breakdown video that details the creative process. The source material originates from Abduzeedo, featuring this digital artwork that blends historical storytelling with contemporary motion design techniques.
Key facts
- Project created in January 2019
- Directed by Yi Le of Loop LOOP Studios
- Set in 1872 Kyoto, Japan
- Features geisha Kobayashi and lover Hideyoshi
- Story addresses impacts of war and women's status
- Inspired by Yi Le's trip to Kyoto
- Includes breakdown video of creative process
- Published on Abduzeedo website
Entities
Artists
- Yi Le
Institutions
- Loop LOOP Studios
Locations
- Kyoto, Japan
- Shanghai, China