BEST ART AWARD WINNER: YINGYING PAN

China Mainland Design Competition Best Art Award Winner 2022: YingYing Pan

15th January 2023

YingYing Pan is 20 years old and currently studying at Donghua University in Shanghai, majoring in Product Design. Her entry to this year’s competition is a bag with the design feature of an adjustable back that allows the user to adapt to their needs according to the items it needs to fit inside, before going out or when going out.

INTERVIEW WITH PAN

Tell us about the inspiration behind your project:

Inspired by the folding and stacking of objects, the bag can adjust its capacity arbitrarily, allowing it to change its size at any time according to the items it needs to hold. Its design refers to the style of geometric simplicity and atmosphere, whilst being practical, convenient and aesthetically please- giving users a comfortable and fashionable experience.

What has been your experience in working with leather for this competition?

It is my first time trying to design and create with real leather. The experience has not only enabled me to understand the characteristics of real leather, but also enabled me to have a certain understanding of the processing technology which is integrated into the design of leather bags.

What are your thoughts on leather and sustainability, and how you think leather can adapt to a fashion industry increasingly focused on sustainability?

The durability of leather is not easily malleable, so leather will not become deformed no matter how long it is used which extends the life of the bag. This allows for leather bags to be redesigned into a new model or the leather can be recycled into new creations.

How do you think winning this competition will impact your career as a designer?

The recognition given to me by this competition has enhanced my confidence in design and encouraged me to continue to make more artistic creations using leather as material in the future.