Alice Li

Inspired by Roald Dahl’s beloved novel ‘Matilda‘, my project explores the vivid scenes of Matilda’s world, drawing on both the original book and its adaptations. Each key setting – Matilda’s home, the library, the school and Miss Honey’s house – evokes different emotions, prompting me to adopt four unique styles to capture their essence.

Matilda’s home, a setting dominated by the overbearing presence of her parents, Mr and Mrs Wormwood, exudes a pompous 90s design aesthetic. The living room, where her parents often reside, is emblematic of their gruff demeanour, while Matilda’s mischievous escapades unfold in the upstairs bathroom.

In contrast, the library emerges as a sanctuary for Matilda, a place where she finds solace in the world of books. Using a cut-paper collage style, I transformed the library into a vibrant circus, with books and characters serving as eager spectators to Matilda’s imaginative stories.

The school, depicted as a dreary and oppressive institution under the tyrannical rule of Miss Trunchbull, is rendered in stark black and white, resembling a grim dungeon where children are subjected to cruelty and punishment.

Conversely, Miss Honey’s humble abode radiates warmth and comfort despite its modest appearance. Using fabric collage techniques, I aim to capture the nurturing spirit of Miss Honey as she transforms her ramshackle hut into a haven of positivity and optimism in the face of adversity.

Through these different styles, my project aims to pay homage to the timeless charm and depth of Dahl’s classic tale, while offering a fresh perspective on its iconic settings and characters.