Xi Li is an artist and designer based in London, currently pursuing a Master’s degree at Central Saint Martins College of Art and Design. Due to her multicultural upbringing, mysterious and dramatic narratives, as well as sustainable materials and intangible cultural heritage crafts, have become central themes in her work. Xi Li has a deep passion for art and observing life, and developed a strong interest in materials and mixed-media painting during her undergraduate studies.

After graduation, she continued her artistic practice alongside her professional work, developing a unique personal style. Her work primarily focuses on contemporary jewellery, installations, and painting, using a variety of materials and techniques. Her creations emphasise the innovation and development of sustainable materials and traditional crafts within modern fashion design and art. She has collaborated with publications and institutions such as Bazaar Jewelry Fashion Magazine, Starbox Fashion Magazine, Silence Studio Jewelry Design, and the Beijing Times Art Museum.

Xi Li’s hometown is a multi-ethnic region where culture and propaganda centre around elephants. She discovered that the local government spends significant amounts annually to address human-elephant conflict, while tourism drives the local economy. Combining her printmaking expertise, she designed postcard jewellery made from treated elephant dung and Dai non-heritage paper-making techniques.

Using surrealism, she aimed to break traditional jewellery designs and promote local culture through unique tourist souvenirs. Proceeds from the jewellery will support elephant conservation and help reduce the government’s financial burden. Xi Li hopes wearers will interact with the artwork, share travel memories, and deepen their connection to the experience, attracting more visitors to explore the region’s unique culture.