The Journey of Design: Xianxi Liao Solo Exhibition was presented in Manhattan, New York, from January 3 to January 7. Xianxi Liao is a dedicated and innovative designer specializing in graphic design, packaging, and UI/UX. This exhibition presents a comprehensive collection of her remarkable works from her study abroad period through the early stages of her career, spanning graphic design, product design, photography, and other disciplines. Xianxi Liao’s work reflects creativity, unique perspectives, and professional expertise. She explores various fields, styles, and themes, integrating elements of daily life with aesthetic practice.
This exhibition highlights her extensive explorations across various domains, showcasing a wide array of styles and her unwavering commitment to innovation. It encapsulates her design journey and her personal trajectory of continuous growth and refinement.
In the “Be yourself” series, the artist blurs elements such as skin color, appearance, makeup, and clothing, using the “blank space” technique to interpret her understanding of “self-awareness profoundly.” She advocates that “self” should be defined based on an individual’s unique experiences rather than being constrained by external factors such as gender, occupation, or race, and firmly opposes gender stereotypes. This series delves deeply into important issues such as the complexity of identity, gender identity, queer theory, and feminism.
Photo Courtesy: Xianxi Liao (Exhibition The Journey of Design, New York, 2025)
Her product, Marshall – Hexaphonic, is a speaker that combines Marshall’s retro and minimalist styles. Wood materials enhance the retro feel, while the touchscreen interface allows for easy selection of songs and switching of music modes. With its innovative and scalable design, Marshall-Hexaphonic breaks through the limitations of traditional audio equipment and can meet the diverse application scenarios of modern people. It combines aesthetic value and practicality. Whether for interior decoration or during travel, it is an essential item that may enhance the style of the space and bring happiness. Hexaphonic Multi-Functional Expandable Speaker garnered a French Design Gold Award in 2024.
Photo Courtesy: Xianxi Liao (Exhibition The Journey of Design, New York, 2025)
Xianxi Liao established a platform, “Empowering Children Against Domestic Violence,” aiming to provide a communication platform for children who have suffered from domestic violence. This is a virtual world without adults. Children share experiences， support each other, and rely on one another to overcome the negative impacts of painful experiences. They seem to be happier. In terms of visual expression, mutual assistance and warmth are highlighted. Through the abstraction of symbols and the selection of colors, she conveys the core concept of the platform: Standing against violence, advocating for children’s well-being, and offering hope to those affected by domestic violence.
Photo Courtesy: Xianxi Liao (Exhibition The Journey of Design, New York, 2025)
In addition to progressing on the path of art and design, Xianxi Liao is also constantly exploring and documenting the outside world through photography. Her photography works are characterized by their ingenious conception, profound meaning, and deep humanism. These qualities reflect her unwavering dedication to her professional pursuits and her ongoing journey of self-transcendence.
Now based in New York City, she holds an MS in Packaging, Identities, and Systems Design from Pratt Institute and a BA in Studio Art from the University of Vermont. She is actively pursuing full-time and part-time opportunities to develop her innovative and professional capabilities further and make a more significant and lasting impact in the design industry. With a strong passion for sustainability, branding, and user experience, she strives to create thoughtful and impactful designs that enhance visual communication and contribute to a more sustainable and user-centered future.
Published by Mark V.
