Interview
Xinchen Li
1 Please give us a brief bio of yourself and your design background.
Hey, I'm Xinchen Li. My work is rooted in metalsmithing and jewelry design, where I combine traditional techniques with innovative tools. Over the years, my practice has evolved to include larger-scale installation art. I have always taken nature and childhood memories as inspirations. Through my designs, I strive to create pieces that not only celebrate aesthetics but also tell stories鈥攚hether personal, cultural, or symbolic鈥攁llowing people to connect with them on an emotional level.
2 What made you become/why did you choose to become a designer/artist?
My journey into design was driven by curiosity and a deep fascination with materials. During my studies, I became captivated by the way objects hold history and meaning. Designing allows me to tell stories, whether they鈥檙e personal, cultural, or symbolic. For me, design is not just about creating something beautiful but also about making meaningful connections between people, objects, and experiences.
3 Tell us more about your agency/company, job profile, and what you do.
As an artist and designer, I focus on creating contemporary jewelry and installations that blend craftsmanship with innovation. I work with metals and 3D printing, exploring how they can express themes like memory and culture.
4 What does 鈥渄esign鈥� mean to you?
Design is a universal language that connects ideas, emotions, and functionality. It鈥檚 about problem-solving, storytelling, and creating experiences. For me, design is a way to express identity and heritage while exploring how materials can evoke emotion and meaning.
5 What鈥檚 your favorite kind of design and why?
I鈥檓 drawn to jewelry design because of its intimate connection to the body and its ability to carry personal stories. I also love installation art because it allows me to scale those stories into immersive environments, engaging viewers on a larger scale.
6 To you, what makes a 鈥済ood鈥� design?
A good design is one that resonates emotionally with people while maintaining functionality and craftsmanship. It should tell a story and create a meaningful experience for those who encounter it.
7 How did you come up with the idea for your award-winning design?
The idea for Iris Dewdrop came from my interest in the Victorian flower code, a symbolic language used to convey hidden emotions and messages, as well as the beauty of nature. I wanted to explore how the iris flower could represent passion, longing, and hope. The design reflects my fascination with blending history and symbolism into contemporary forms.
8 What was your main source of inspiration for this design?
My inspiration came from 19th-century Victorian flower codes, which fascinated me with their poetic approach to communication. The iris flower, with its vibrant symbolism of passion and messages, became the centerpiece of the design, allowing me to combine historical meaning with modern aesthetics.
9 Do you think your country and its cultural heritage has an impact on your design process?
My Chinese heritage has had a profound influence on my design process. Growing up in China, I was surrounded by craftsmanship and storytelling traditions. These experiences shape my approach to design, where I focus on connecting cultural history with modern techniques to create meaningful pieces.
10 Congratulations! As the winner of the 乐发IV, what does it mean to you and your company and team to receive this award distinction?
Winning this award is an incredible honour and validation of my work. It means so much to me as a designer to see my ideas resonate with others on an international level. This recognition encourages me to continue exploring innovative approaches and sharing my passion for storytelling through design.
11 Can you explain a bit about the winning work you entered into the 乐发IV, and why you chose to enter this project?
Iris Dewdrop represents the culmination of my exploration into symbolism, history, and material innovation. I entered this piece because it embodies my belief in combining tradition with modernity, and I felt it aligned well with the values celebrated by the 乐发IV.
12 What were the main challenges you faced during the design process, and how did you overcome them?
One of the biggest challenges was the stones' arrangement and colour choices. I wanted the design to communicate emotion while maintaining a high level of detail and technical precision. Through experimentation, I was able to refine the piece until it truly conveyed my vision.
13 How do you think winning this award will impact your future as a designer?
Winning this award inspires me to keep pushing boundaries in my designs. It provides a platform to share my work with a larger audience and reinforces my confidence in creating meaningful, innovative pieces.
14 What are your top three (3) favorite things about the design industry?
1. The ability to tell stories through objects. 2. The intersection of tradition and innovation in design. 3. The global community of designers who inspire and challenge one another.
15 What sets your design apart from others in the same category?
My designs stand out because they blend traditional craft with modern materials. This combination allows me to explore themes of symbolism and culture in unique ways.
16 Where do you see the evolution of design industry going over the next 5-10 years?
I see the design industry embracing more sustainable and technology-driven approaches. There will likely be a stronger focus on artificial intelligence, even though it's controversial for now.
17 What advice do you have for aspiring designers who want to create award-winning designs?
Stay true to your unique voice and vision. Experiment with materials, and it鈥檚 always nice to tell a personal or cultural story through your work.
18 What resources would you recommend to someone who wants to improve their skills in the design industry?
Books on design history, online platform classes and workshops, and engaging with the design community through exhibitions and competitions.
19 Tell us something you have never told anyone else.
I鈥檝e always felt a strong connection to flowers and nature because they remind me of my childhood surroundings. Growing up, I spent a lot of time outdoors, fascinated by the delicate details of petals, the shifting colours of leaves, and the way nature seemed to carry silent messages.
20 Who has inspired you in your life and why?
My inspirations come from my mom and my dog, both in very different yet meaningful ways. My mother has always been a source of strength and resilience. She has an incredible ability to adapt, find creative solutions, and carry a quiet determination, which I deeply admire. On the other hand, my dog has taught me about patience, loyalty, and appreciating small joys in life. There鈥檚 something so honest and pure about animals鈥攈ow they live in the moment, express emotions without words, and form deep bonds of trust.
21 What is your key to success? Any parting words of wisdom?
Persistence, curiosity, and a willingness to embrace challenges. Success comes from constantly learning, evolving, and staying true to your creative vision.
22 Do you have anything else you would like to add to the interview?
I鈥檓 grateful for the opportunity to share my work through the 乐发IV. It鈥檚 always inspiring to see how design can connect people across cultures and disciplines.
