Jewelry as a Voice: A conversation with designer Yifei Kong on Feminism and Artistic Expression
Authored by: Jasmine Hsu Photo Courtesy: Yifei Kong
Meet Yifei Kong, a talented designer with a multicultural background whose designs are both contemporary and timeless. She highlights feminism and brings unique insights through her recent exhibition of the wearable jewelry collection I Am Who I Am. In this interview, Yifei shares her journey, inspirations, and the stories behind her work.
Tell us about yourself. Where did you grow up? What were you like as a child?
I grew up in Beijing, a city full of history and diversity, where the fusion of modernity and tradition has always inspired me. Since I was young, I’ve been drawn to colorful, sparkling things. I was curious and would spend hours drawing and making small pieces of jewelry from any materials I could find at home.
How did you get into designing jewelry?
I’ve been studying internationally since my undergraduate years, and I’m particularly interested in the complexity and craftsmanship involved in jewelry making. Turning flat materials into wearable, three-dimensional jewelry is a very enjoyable process for me. I believe jewelry is not just an accessory or decoration but a way to reflect a person’s attitude, politics, mood, and self-expression.
Where do you find inspiration for your designs?
My inspiration primarily comes from my personal experiences and my culture. I’m deeply influenced by traditional Chinese art, the beauty of nature, and my time spent studying internationally. I try to merge historical motifs, natural elements, and modern aesthetics into my designs. Each piece tells a unique story.
Could you introduce the project I Am Who I Am?
This project explores my cultural heritage and identity as a Chinese woman. It examines society’s control over women, from ancient times to the present, and emphasizes feminism. Traditional Chinese hair accessories often symbolized control over women. My pieces open a dialogue about the tension between traditional and contemporary values regarding women’s roles in Chinese society. Through my work, I aim to express women’s freedom and individuality while challenging societal constraints on female beauty and personality.
What interesting materials have you used for this collection?
Unlike traditional Chinese hair accessories, which often feature precious metals and gemstones, I’ve used recycled aluminum cans in my work. This choice reflects my exploration of contemporary jewelry materials and symbolizes women's independent right to choose.
What has been your biggest challenge so far?
One of my biggest challenges has been conveying my concepts to people from diverse cultural backgrounds. It’s not easy to clearly explain the history and ideas behind my work to the audience.
How are you finding being a designer?
What are the highs and lows?
Becoming an artist and designer is very fulfilling, but it also comes with its challenges. The highs include the joy of creating unique works, seeing the audience's reactions, and having the creative freedom to express my vision. However, the lows involve the pressure to constantly innovate and deal with occasional creative blocks. Despite these challenges, my passion for my craft and the satisfaction of sharing my art with others make it all worthwhile.
