Qiaoyu Deng explores the intersection of tradition, philosophy, and design through her work. Growing up in Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, she was deeply influenced by her family’s interest in traditional Chinese fortune-telling culture. This upbringing, combined with the rich cultural and innovative atmosphere of her hometown, became a wellspring of inspiration for her design concepts.

During her undergraduate studies, Qiaoyu majored in leather goods making, gaining a strong foundation in craftsmanship and materiality—skills that later became instrumental in her transition to jewellery design. She is currently advancing her expertise at the School of Jewellery at Birmingham City University in the United Kingdom.

Through her studies, Qiaoyu discovered the intimate connection between jewellery and the human body. She believes jewellery is not merely decorative but an extension of the wearer’s self, capable of sparking deeper thought through its physical presence and symbolism. Her designs explore this intersection of wearability and philosophy, inviting the wearer to reflect on the stories and meanings embedded in each piece.

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The second interpretation draws inspiration from the ancient practice of palmistry, where destiny is believed to be literally etched into the lines and markings of the palm. This mystical perspective intertwines the tangible with the metaphysical, suggesting that life’s trajectory and key traits are both predetermined and open to discovery.

Through these dual perspectives, my designs aim to spark curiosity and invite reflection. By blending the philosophical with the mystical, I strive to create pieces that resonate with the wearer, embodying both personal empowerment and a connection to timeless traditions.

Language, much like art, is a versatile medium capable of conveying multiple layers of meaning. In this series of works, I explore the profound maxim, “destiny is in one’s own hands,” through two distinct interpretations.

The first interpretation reflects the widely held belief that individuals have the power to shape their own life paths. It emphasises personal agency, self-determination, and the empowering notion that one’s choices and actions carve the future.