The second launch of CUTOUT: ZERO came to a graceful close in Shenzhen. More than just a release, it was a collective moment shaped by time, passion, and conviction. Initiated through the sincere invitation of Mr. Yong Siong Yow of 1983 Asia, the evening was destined to be something special from the very beginning. With the generous support of TOPYS Bookstore at OCT Loft, the space carried a sense of cultural depth and quiet significance. The meticulously crafted key visual was not merely a display of aesthetics, but an emotional catalyst—igniting the atmosphere and elevating the entire experience.
At 7:30 PM, Jay Lim began his sharing with a calm and narrative tone, guiding the audience through the origins, pause, and eventual rebirth of CUTOUT. From its early ideals and persistence, to the realities that led to a temporary halt, and finally the courage to reset—his story unfolded as more than the journey of a magazine. It became a reflection on endurance, choices, and the shaping force of time, resonating deeply with everyone present.
Following this, Wong Ka Shun (The Early Cloud), representing Macau and Malaysia, took the stage. Through a diverse range of projects, he seamlessly connected pet furniture, event visuals, and fashion design—demonstrating how ideas can move fluidly across disciplines. His sharing reflected a contemporary creative approach, where design is no longer confined to a single medium, but exists as an open and evolving dialogue.
Next, Liao Bo feng (You Liao Design) centered his talk on graphic design, diving into the power behind visual communication. Beyond form and aesthetics, he explored how design carries meaning, emotion, and cultural context—reminding the audience that design should not only be seen, but understood.
The panel discussion, moderated by Yong Siong Yow and Guan Shu, brought together all five speakers to explore the future of publishing, the impact of AI, and the role of design in shaping the next generation. The conversation was layered, honest, and thought-provoking—moving from industry structures to creative mindsets, from evolving tools to shifting values. Audience participation further extended the dialogue, transforming the session into a dynamic exchange of perspectives.
Notably, the audience that evening extended far beyond Shenzhen, with attendees from Macau, Hong Kong, Guangzhou, Fujian, and other regions. This convergence of voices and backgrounds created a rare sense of regional connection, amplifying the role of CUTOUT: ZERO as a platform for exchange and dialogue.
A dedicated display table was also set up on-site, featuring past issues of CUTOUT alongside the newly launched ZERO edition. Guests were invited to browse through the publications up close—experiencing the tactile qualities, print details, and evolution of the magazine over time. Many took the opportunity to purchase copies, allowing the publication to continue its journey into new hands.
As the night drew to a close—amid applause, group photos, and shared laughter—the weekend gently settled into memory. Though brief, it left behind a lasting impression for everyone present: a moment shaped by design, dialogue, and the quiet significance of coming together.