Zhenzhen Jing

Architecture (MA)
I am wearing my own custom-made Hanfu (traditional Chinese clothing).
An introduction to the mechanisms of the digestive and reproductive systems in birds
An introduction to the mechanisms of the digestive and reproductive systems in birds
One page of the comic: We shape ourselves and our descendants through our environmental intake.
Changes caused by iron pollution to the environment and organisms, and the food chain diagram of the Watercock
Changes caused by iron pollution to the environment and organisms, and the food chain diagram of the Watercock
One page of the comic: The environment in which we live, from microorganisms to animals and plants, is undergoing subtle changes due to iron pollution, and as the end of the food chain, we are bearing the brunt of these cumulative damages.
System explanation and final water purification cycle results
System explanation and final water purification cycle results
One page of the comic: Using the rice fields where Watercock now often dwells as the site, two different types of water purification devices were installed in the rice field's water supply system, utilising the water purification properties of iron bacteria.
Detailed drawings of two water purification devices
Detailed drawings of two water purification devices
Utilising the characteristics of iron-oxidising bacteria and iron-reducing bacteria, combined with inexpensive and readily available materials, floating water purification devices can be constructed to make water resources, which are crucial to the survival of waterbirds, cleaner and safer.
An introduction to the mechanisms of the digestive and reproductive systems in birds
Changes caused by iron pollution to the environment and organisms, and the food chain diagram of the Watercock
System explanation and final water purification cycle results
Detailed drawings of two water purification devices

About

Zhenzhen Jing is a multidisciplinary practitioner whose primary focus lies in architectural design. She moves fluidly between the roles of architect, illustrator, jewelry designer, and Hanfu designer. Her work across these fields is connected through a feminist lens, grounded in critical theories of space and power. In her architectural practice, she emphasizes decentralization, plurality, and human-centered values, challenging dominant spatial and ideological hierarchies.

Through sustained engagement with architecture, she has come to view physical space not as static form but as an active agent within the interplay of consciousness and society. Her research investigates how spatial strategies can facilitate social transformation. During her first year in ADS 2 at the Royal College of Art, she explored the idea of joy as a form of agency, using temporary architecture as the material infrastructure for performative protest—reclaiming space through collective, celebratory action. In her second-year project in ADS 11, she extended this pursuit of joy into darker territory. Taking a non-human perspective, she examined how anthropocentric systems marginalize other species and ultimately harm humans themselves. Despite its heavy theme—iron pollution and ecological degradation—she deliberately employed black humor and visual storytelling through hand-drawn comics. This contrast between gravity and absurdity reflects her conviction that humor is a powerful force for critique, capable of provoking deeper reflection than solemnity alone.

These cross-disciplinary explorations have enabled her feminist inquiry to move beyond abstract theorization into grounded, practice-led research. They continue to shape her understanding of space as a critical, transformative medium embedded within broader struggles against structural violence.

Content Warning

The content on this website may contain themes and materials that some users find distressing or offensive. Further, the content on this website may not be suitable for individuals under the age of 18. User discretion is advised.

Any views and opinions expressed in this student profile represent the views and opinions of the student and do not necessarily represent the views or opinions of the Royal College of Art or its employees or affiliates. The appearance of any views or opinions on this page do not constitute endorsement of those views by the Royal College of Art. This student profile has been made available for informational purposes only. The Royal College of Art does not make any representations or warranties with regard to the accuracy of any information provided in this student profile, nor does it warrant the performance, effectiveness or applicability of any listed or linked sites. The Royal College of Art is not responsible for the content submitted by any user, or for the defamatory, offensive or illegal conduct of any user. If you wish to report any errors or inappropriate material that may cause offence, please email feedback@rca.ac.uk 

To opt out >