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Xia Shang
Xia Shang is a Chinese designer with a global perspective, shaped by experiences in Japan, the United States, and beyond. Guided by empathy and a respect for all forms of life, his work gives voice to overlooked communities and seeks meaningful connection through thoughtful design.
1Please give us a brief bio of yourself and your design background.
I’m a designer from China with a global background, having studied and worked in Japan, the United States, and other parts of the world. My design practice is driven by a desire to give voice to the vulnerable — to those often hidden in the shadows of society. Through my work, I seek to express a deep respect for life and a heartfelt longing to connect with all forms of existence.
2What made you become/why did you choose to become a designer/artist?
A restless desire to speak through design and form.
3 Tell us more about your agency/company, job profile, and what you do.
I graduated from Kyoto Seika University, and I'm currently pursuing my creative work as a freelance designer.
4What does “design” mean to you?
Moments of conflict, followed by quiet resolution.
5What’s your favourite kind of design and why?
Visceral, bold, and visually striking — infused with a raw sense of strength.
6To you, what makes a “good” design?
To me, the most admirable designs are those that go beyond aesthetics — those that carry meaning, tell stories, or embody social relationships.
7How did you come up with the idea for your award-winning design?
What I see, I strive to understand — and what I understand, I choose to give voice to.
8What was your main source of inspiration for this design?
Cohesion, sense of identity. Things that are dangerous at the same time.
9Do you think your country and its cultural heritage has an impact on your design process?
Yes. Design works are often things that I can see.
10Congratulations! As the winner of the London Design Awards, what does it mean to you and your company and team to receive this award distinction?
Thank you! Now, my voice will reach more people and my message will be seen.
11Can you explain a bit about the winning work you entered into the London Design Awards, and why you chose to enter this project?
For the popularity, of course, haha!
12What were the main challenges you faced during the design process, and how did you overcome them?
There weren't any challenges that I faced throughout the process, so I overcame them easily!
13How do you think winning this award will impact your future as a designer?
It will be another step forward towards my future as a designer.
14What are your top three (3) favorite things about the design industry?
Discover, question and solve.
15What sets your design apart from others in the same category?
My designs are much more radical in terms of design, so I think these differences definitely set my designs different from others.
16Where do you see the evolution of design industry going over the next 5-10 years?
It will start a new cycle chapter.
17What advice do you have for aspiring designers who want to create award-winning designs?
Just do it boldly.
18What resources would you recommend to someone who wants to improve their skills in the design industry?
Resources? Just do it and display your own skills! You're the resources!
19Who has inspired you in your life and why?
My family and friends, my dog, and my third personality (haha).
20What is your key to success? Any parting words of wisdom?
One word: BOLD.
Winning Entry
FERTILITY PANOPTICON | 2025 London Design Awards
Among the fundamental determinants of human development, reproduction is paramount. Yet contemporary discourse on fertility-particularly the“unspeakable" mindset that has taken root in many Asian societies-encourages people to cloak themselves in the veneer of an... (read more here)
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