Artist Info
Jinghan Li
I’m an interdisciplinary designer from China. My academic journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Biology in China, during which I gained a strong foundation in biological sciences and honed my research skills. My interest in design and art led me to pursue an MA in Biodesign at Central Saint Martins, where I mostly focused on sustainable innovation and interdisciplinary approaches in addressing environmental problem. The project focuses on waste and pollution in the fashion industry, where the scraps are easily neglected by consumer or designer. Therefore I want to find a way to repurpose those waste.
When scraps were cut off from cloth, they lost their function as garments -- protecting human body. Since both scraps and garments come from a same piece of cloth, so how can we find a value of those scraps and let them become part of human body just like garments. The main material I used for this project is plant-based fibre, which its main component is cellulose. Cellulose can be break down by cellulase -- an enzyme into single molecule, which is glucose. Based on the properties of different types of fibre, I designed 4 candies and named them as Above clouds, Denim delights, Linenergy and Shiny-shiny, which represents 4 types of waste fabric: Pure cotton, denim, linen and synthetic(cotton and polyester). Colors were from original color of that fabric or food coloring.
For me my journey on design study is difficult yet enjoyable. Sometimes I would questioned myself when I was stuck. I have gained a lot valuable experience and knowledge while cooperating with others. This process helped me complete the transformation of my personal identity to a certain extent - from a science student to a designer, or both.
Instagram: @jhli666
