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Ziqi Zhang

Ling Tung University

I am a fashion design student with a strong passion for material exploration and handcrafted creation, especially in leatherwork and three-dimensional structure. In my free time, I enjoy designing and making leather goods that balance practicality and aesthetic expression. I pay close attention to detail and craftsmanship, and I like experimenting with different styles and visual languages in my work. I am familiar with basic pattern making and sewing techniques, and I am continuously improving my skills in digital tools such as CLO 3D and Illustrator. My design inspiration often comes from animals, deformation, and uncanny visual elements. I enjoy blending bizarre aesthetics with everyday functionality to create pieces that carry a sense of visual tension. In the future, I hope to further explore the possibilities of leather as a material and develop a distinctive creative direction rooted in my personal interests.

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Category: Accessories

Competitions: Taiwan Region

This piece draws inspiration from the realistic form of a cockroach, crafted from vegetable-tanned leather. Through techniques such as carving, dyeing, and layering, the design meticulously recreates the insect’s segmented limbs and glossy exoskeleton, giving the bag a vivid three-dimensional presence and tactile richness. The work challenges conventional aesthetics by leveraging the widespread aversion to cockroaches, creating a striking sense of the grotesque. By transforming this commonly rejected creature into a functional, fashion-forward shoulder bag, the piece provokes reflection on the boundaries between beauty and repulsion. Beyond its visual impact, the design emphasizes usability. The cockroach’s shell seamlessly integrates with the bag’s structure, achieving a balance between sculptural form and everyday function. Ultimately, this work seeks to spark a broader conversation about the definition of beauty, while also pushing the limits of traditional leathercraft. It represents an experimental fusion of material and form, delivering a design that is both artistic and practical.

In association with Arts Thread

Working with our partners at Arts Thread to develop lifelong learning and career opportunities for students of fashion and design. Our partnership provides the opportunity to compete on a world stage, participate in industry led workshops, set up an outstanding portfolio and gain access to the resources that will kickstart careers in fashion and design.