Giving Voice to the Overlooked: A Conversation with Xia Shang

BY Sylvester July 22, 2025

Xia Shang | London Design Awards

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.

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.

A restless desire to speak through design and form.

I graduated from Kyoto Seika University, and I'm currently pursuing my creative work as a freelance designer.

Moments of conflict, followed by quiet resolution.

Visceral, bold, and visually striking — infused with a raw sense of strength.

To me, the most admirable designs are those that go beyond aesthetics — those that carry meaning, tell stories, or embody social relationships.

What I see, I strive to understand — and what I understand, I choose to give voice to.

Cohesion, sense of identity. Things that are dangerous at the same time.

Yes. Design works are often things that I can see.

Thank you! Now, my voice will reach more people and my message will be seen.

For the popularity, of course, haha!

There weren't any challenges that I faced throughout the process, so I overcame them easily!

It will be another step forward towards my future as a designer.