Concept for a new Banknote Series for the Maldives
RAN DHIHAFAHEH
PROLOGUE 03 September 2014
MMA Announces Ran Dhihafaheh CompetitionInvitation to Submit Artwork for a Proposed New Series of Banknotes including a 50th Anniversary of Independence Commemorative Note
06 November 2014MMA Reopens the call for Design Submissions
12 January 2015 Six Submissions are Shortlisted for Presentation
13 January 2015 The Six Shortlisted Submissions are Presented to the Judges
THE CHALLENGE
How do we redesign an appreciated classic?
How can we be more than the previous series, a series celebrated for its visual aesthetic and recognised as a design uniquely representative of the Maldives?
We need to go beyond just a visual representation of the country
We need to convey the socio-economic reality of the Maldives; past and present, while also encapsulating the nations drive/goals/aspirations; for the present and the future
We need to provide positive provocation within the locals as well as the world at large through evocative highlighting of cultural, historical and scientific, and perhaps even educational, concepts which are of national significance encapsulated in the design
THE INITIAL CONCEPT
Represent the nation through timeless,
iconic and contextually unique patterns and textures which are
instantly recognisableas Maldivian.
THE BIG IDEA
THE STORY
The Faces Weaves together to form a fabric of the Maldives and the Maldivian way of life.
Our Beginnings The three higher denomination notes focus
on telling the story of our beginnings a callback to where were from.
We Thrive
The three lower denomination notes focus on our drive and how we use the backdrop
of culture, faith and art to navigatetowards success.
The Back While remaining the same in all
denominations; is an acknowledgement of the basic natural building blocks of
the nation.
Create and convey the story of our
nation; where we come from, who we are and what
drivesus forward.
^
^
THE FACES
While a single colour/texture dominates the
majority of the Banknote a contextual image provides clarity, to those immediately
not familiar with the the main image, and context, why it is significant to the
Maldivian way of life.
Thrive
Beginnings
^^
5
10
20
50
100
500
THE BACKThe Natural Biological,
Ecological and Geological Building Blocks of the nation, represented in the form of a
Coral Polyp, provides a provokingly powerful
Foundation for the notes with the reverse texture unchanging; the only changes being it taking
on the colour while also incorporating the security
window structure of its corresponding face.
The three higher denomination notes focus on
telling the story of our beginnings a callback
to wherewere from.
500
100
50
Coconut ThatchVital for building and reinforcing our shelter.
Coral (Brain Coral)Vital in the formation and protection of Islands.
Fish (Tuna) Vital form of sustenance.
OUR BEGINNINGS
The three lower denomination notes focus on our drive
and how we use the backdrop of culture,
faith and art to navigate towards
success; both within our communities as
well as globally.
20
10
5
Hull Frame (Vessel)Artistic expression and skill in driving an industry.
Beach and ShorelineUtilisation of natural resources to create wealth.
Limestone Carving (in Mosques/Buildings)Collective faith and foresight shape worldview.
WE THRIVE
A spot laminated style graphical
representation of the Map of the Maldives
links all the banknotes together, when placed
in sequence.
Front BackTHE CONNECTING
ELEMENT
The Commemorative Note is a marked departure
from the rest of the series and is a complete picture
of celebration celebratory elements such
as traditional jewellery, particularly gold to reflect
the 50th Anniversary of Independence, and dress
inspires this texture.
Gold Jewellery and Traditional AttireElements of celebration worthy of a 50th year commemoration.
COMMEMORATIVE NOTE:
WE ASPIRE
INCORPORATING THE MODERN
WITH THE TRADITIONAL
The security window and frame, which initially framed the National
Emblem, are reflective of the textures, designs and
unique features of the Maldives.
In addition traditional motifs decorate the edges while also functioning as
framing devices.
THE VISUAL STYLE
While taking things in a different direction we felt it
necessary to also pay homage to the previous
designs after all they are consistently featured in best
of world currencydesign lists.
Thus the incorporation of the sketched/etched look providing a sense of a
familiar continuity.
AESTHETICSA single colour dominates each denomination the user being able to easily identify the denomination
of each note with a simple glance.
The colours assigned to each banknote will be
determined by the type of texture used on the face.
INFORMATION HIERARCHY
The key information is
always accessible and there is no confusion as to
what it is.
EXECUTED CONCEPTPresentation Ready Designs
CONCEPT: THE FACEThe face of the MVR 500 note with the Brain Coral Texture as
initially conceptualised and presented to the Judging Committee.
CONCEPT: THE BACKThe back of every note, presented here as the MVR 100 note, as initially conceptualised and presented to the Judging Committee.
MAINTAINING RELEVANCE
By creating an Augmented Reality Application for the major mobile platforms we
can always keep the Banknotes relevant by adding content and updates simple
animations and interactive elements can give the
notes a sense of continuous
evolution/relevance.
THE FINALISTS
18 January 2015 Three Submissions are chosen Parties to work closely with MMA to further develop concepts Best Design Award to be split Note Series and Commemorative Note to be judged, andawarded, separately
INITIAL DESIGN FEEDBACKMMA gives feedback based on their views and those of the judges
RECONFIGURING
THE BACKMMA relays
instructions to reconfigure the Back in line with feedback
from theJudging Panel.
Concern that polyps arent unique to just this ecosystem
Concern the image is too overbearing when compared to others
Concern the image is repeated onevery note
Concern that the placement of the image is lacklustre
Concern the image places a burden of (self) education/learning on the the audience as it is notinstantly recognisable/relatable
ADDITIONAL FEEDBACKMMA emphasises additional qualities
they would ideally like to see represented in
the designs.
Must be attractive to foreigners as well as public Tourism and the Tourism Industry being a major economic driving force
Must Incorporate a Security Window in each design
Must Incorporate Braille in each design
MVR 1,000 to be introduced
MVR 5 to be retired
Striving to quickly produce designs; work began on an extended concept for the back featuring newly
chosen elements.
Feedback from the Marine Research Centre, as well
as their associate organisations, in fact
checking and technical/scientific input greatly
helps us moveforward swiftly.
THE BACK CONCEPT EVOLVES
THE NEW BACK
Based on the input for the Banknotes an extension of the
Foundations of Maldivesis proposed.
In addition to Polyps other elements, and organisms, which form the basis of our ecosystem
is introduced to the Back focus is given, with the assistance of the Marine Research Centre, to
the genesis, balance and mediation in terms of change/impact as to the ecosystem.
It is proposed that this is a unique opportunity to create awareness as to the makeup, and fragility, of
our ecosystem.
Polyp Attaches itself to a rock on the sea floor, then divides, or buds, into thousands of clones and thus form a reef.
CoccolithophoresOf particular interest to global climate change because as ocean acidity increases, their coccoliths play a role as carbon sinks; removing carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere.
DiatomsEstimated to contribute up to 45% of the total oceanic primary production (the synthesis of organic compounds from atmospheric or aqueous carbon dioxide). Almost all life on earth is directly or indirectly reliant on primary production.
HalimedaProduces calcium carbonate and have been found to be the primary reef-building organism of the tropical seas.
ForaminiferaAre sediment producers. Nearly 50% of the modern deep-ocean floor is covered by foraminiferal ooze, which is composed primarily of the empty shells (sediments) of protists that live as plankton in the surface waters of theopen ocean.
Larvae (Fish Larvae)Larva (plural larvae) is a distinct juvenile form many animals undergo before metamorphosis into adults.
HOLD THE PRESSES
While work is underway to complete the set with the
extended concept incorporated into the designs MMA calls for
a meeting.
We are asked to pursue another concept for the Back. No reasons are required to be given on their part and none
are given.
We can submit our designs with the extended concept but it is made clear that it will affect
the chances of us winning.
Unbeknownst to the MMA, and initially to us (the designers) as well, an extremely similar concept was pitched for the new Norwegian Krone; but would be eventually rejected by Norges Bank we bring this to the attention of MMA during this meeting.
Coincidence aside we still believe the concept to be strong and appropriate, more so for a low lying sea faring nation dependent upon the safety of our islands for habitation and commerce.
Image: Norges Bank
SHOWCASING ENDANGERED UNDERWATER
BEAUTY
The final solution for the Back was to
settle on near extinct species which live in
Maldivian waters and to showcase their beauty and
underwater diversity.
Whale Shark A slow-moving filter feeding shark and the largest known fish species currently known to be in existence.
Giant Clam Are of the largest living shell enclosed invertebrates.
Triton Shell Also known as Ranellidae; are very large predatory sea snails.
Marine TurtleFour of the species are Endangered or Critically Endangered while another two are classed Vulnerable.
Spotted Eagle RayIs a cartilaginous fish of the eagle ray family, found in tropical regions all over the world.
Napoleon WrasseOr Humphead Wrasse, is a species of fish mainly found on coral reefs.
CONCEPTS FOR FINAL JUDGING
RAN DHIHAFAHEH SERIESPresentation Ready Designs
Focuses on how the skill of boatbuilding has evolved to meet current needs while still retaining artistic/economic value.
The Texture: Hull Frame / Vessel Features an intricate rendering of a traditional Maldivian boat hull.
Security Window: Limestone Pattern / Kalhu Oh Fummi Framed by a Limestone pattern the image is that of the legendary Kalhu Oh Fummi', the vessel Mohamed Thakurufaan deployed in his defeat of foreign oppressors; bringing freedom to the nation.
The Back: Napoleon Wrasse Also known as Humphead Wrasse; a species of fish mainly found on coral reefs.
MVR 10
We Thrive
Hull Frame (Vessel) Artistic expression and skill in driving an industry.
Focuses on how we utilise our natural resources to create wealth. The Texture: Island Shore / An Island Features a composition of a beach and a timeless rendering of an island with a dhoni (boat) docked to a side and a smaller boat (bokkuraa) tethered to the shore.
Security Window:Liyelaa Pattern / Halimeda Framed by a commonly recurring motif in traditional lacquer work, the image is that of Halimeda; the primary reef-building organism of the tropical seas.
The Back: Spotted RayA cartilaginous fish of the eagle ray family, found in tropical regions.
MVR 20
We Thrive
Beach and ShorelineUtilisation of natural resources to create wealth.
Focuses on how faith and foresight shape our worldview. The Texture: Limestone Carving / Mosque Features a rendering of a Maldivian Limestone Carving.
Security Window: Wood Engraving / Minaret Framed by a Wood Engraving common to roof structures in mosques, the image is that of the Mal Friday Mosque minaret from which it is said that the first prayer call was sounded.
The Back: Marine Turtles Four of the species are Endangered or Critically Endangered while another two are classed vulnerable.
MVR 50
We Thrive
Limestone Carving (in Mosques/Buildings)Collective faith and foresight shape worldview.
Focuses on our main sourceof traditional, andmodern, sustenance.
The Face: Tuna / Fishermen Features a school of tuna. Also depicts fisherman in frenzied action of pole and line fishing; globally recognised as one of the most sustainable means of fishing.
Security Window: Decorative Motif / Lesser Noddy Framed by a decorative motif commonly found in traditional boats, the framed image is that of a Lesser Noddy they fly over schools of fish.
The Back: Triton Shell Also known as Ranellidae, are very large predatory sea snails.
MVR 100
Our Beginnings
Fish (Tuna) Vital form of sustenance.
Focuses on the formative elements of our living habitat.
The Face: Coconut Weave / Traditional Hut Features an intricate weave of Coconut Leaves which are used heavily in traditional houses.
Security Window: Wood Engraving / Coconut Seedling A wooden engraving found on a box used during the reign of Sultan Gazee Hassan Izzudhdheen frames the image of a Coconut Seedling.
The Back: Giant Clam The largest living shellenclosed invertebrate.
MVR 500
Our Beginnings
Coconut ThatchVital for building and reinforcing our shelter.
Focuses on the formative elements of the island nation.
The Face: Brain Coral / Coral Reef Features an intricate close-up of a Brain Coral, common to Maldives.
Security Window:Traditional Seal / Polyp Framed by an outline of a traditional seal, or stamp used by royalty as well as other institutions, the framed image is a Polyp; an organism which attaches itself to a rock on the sea floor, then divides, or buds, into thousands of clones thus initiating the formation of a reef.
The Back: Whale Shark A slow-moving filter feeding shark and the largest known fish species currently known to be in existence.
MVR 1,000
Our Beginnings
Coral (Brain Coral)Vital in the formation and protection of Islands.
COMMEMORATIVE NOTEPresentation Ready Designs
The Face:Gold Jewellery / Children Celebrating Features Traditional attire the gold Fattaru Bai (necklace) and the Kasabu (intricately hand woven decorative weave which defines the neckline of a Libaas or traditional dress) a direct link to the Golden, 50th, Anniversary. Children unabashedly celebrating a national event channels the spirit of independence and along with it the freedom to express oneself without restraint. Security Window: Ulha / Flag Formation Framed by a gold Ulhaa', or bangle, the familiar formation of three national flags signifies national celebration.
The Back: Gidige Celebratory Decorative Arches This harkens back to recent memory when major celebrations meant many Gidige in different decorative styles.
MVR 5,000 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF
INDEPENDENCE COMMEMORATIVE NOTE
We Aspire
Gold Jewellery and Traditional AttireElements of celebration worthy of a 50th year commemoration.
THE SELECTION
09 March 2015 MMA Announces Final SelectionNone of the domus designs detailed here are chosen
THANKS AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Special Appreciation for providing Technical and Scientific Input
Dr. Mohamed Shiham Adam Ms. Shaahina Ali
Mr. Musthaag Hussain Dr. Abdulla Naseer
Mr. Mohamed Sheeneen (Sindhi) Mr. Ahmed Wajeeh
Special Appreciation for providing Images and/or Additional Assistance
Ms. Dheena Hussain Ms. Zulaikha Manik Ms. Aminath Manike
Shaaz Ms. Mariam Shidha Mr. Ismail Shujau
Mr. Ahmed Thasleem
Dhivehi Bahuge Academy Ecological Associates Haveeru Media Group
Manta Trust Marine Research Centre (Maldives)
We would like to thank everyone who contributed
their time and effort assisting us in this endeavour our
friends, families, organisations, institutions and even (prior) strangers who were happy to oblige.
Were very grateful for your assistance; thank you!
Rosy Side, 276, Janbumagu, Maafannu, Mal 20276, Rep. of Maldives. 00 960 7782483, 00 960 7971000, 00 960 7791199 [email protected], www.be.net/domus, www.issuu.com/domus000, www.youtube.com/user/domus000 Mohamed Rassam, Ibrahim Hussain Shihab, Ali Nishaf Rasheed, 2015 All rights reserved. This document may be freely reviewed, quoted, reproduced or translated, in part or in full, provided the source is acknowledged.