12 Jun 2025
At the prestigious international design event “Design Shanghai” 2025 held from 4 - 7 June, a lamp designed by Mengxiao Ye, an industrial design student who just graduated from Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University, was honored with the “Design Shanghai Picks” award.
This year, Design Shanghai was held at the Shanghai World Expo Exhibition & Convention Center. It selects more than 600 design products from over 30 countries and regions, presenting the latest developments in the design industry. The XJTLU Design School's exhibition, themed “Zen Garden”, blends digital fabrication technology with the aesthetics of Eastern Zen philosophy, creating an immersive space that harmonizes tranquility and technological sophistication, and Mengxiao’s design is among the exhibits.
The “Design Shanghai Picks” award was the only award presented at this year’s event, recognising exhibitors and designers for their high standards in design philosophy, craftsmanship, and cultural artistry. Among over 600 participating brands, only 30 designs received this recognition.
Mengxiao explains that her design, titled “Flying”, draws inspiration from the lightness of kites. Its parametric modeling structure symbolises the dynamic and ever-changing motion of a kite. The body of the lamp , crafted from laser-cut ceramic, is encircled by lines of varying lengths, simulating the movements of kite strings as they soar through the sky. When illuminated, these lines create a gradient effect from shadow to light.
Jacob de Baan, Mengxiao’s tutor and a Senior Associate Professor from XJTLU’s Department of Industrial Design, says that the award recognises her innovative approach and vision which already impacts the industry
“As her teacher for the past 2 years, I see that her understanding of various design concepts, such as emotional design theory, inclusive design and sustainable design, expresses a rare sensibility. Mengxiao’s passion, creativity, and dedication make her an exceptional designer,” he says.
By Yi Qian
Images courtesy of XJTLU Department of Industrial Design and Design Shanghai
12 Jun 2025