Siri Chen

Textiles (MA)
A picture of Siri Chen sitting comfortably on her self-designed sofa made of translucent gradient pillows.
Detailed view of pillows integrating translucent knitted structures with clear sheer textiles to explore light interplay and material contrast.
Detailed view of pillows integrating translucent knitted structures with clear sheer textiles to explore light interplay and material contrast.
This close-up highlights the textural and material contrasts in the pillows that make up Light Resting in Clouds. Each pillow features one side crafted with semi-transparent knitted structures using different techniques, while the other side is made from fully transparent fabric. This duality allows light to pass through and interact with the layers in dynamic ways. Colors softly overlap and blend across the double-sided colored structures, creating a more gentle and natural visual effect. The result is a serene and emotionally enriching spatial experience
Textile seating design inspired by light beams; composed of modular pillows.
Textile seating design inspired by light beams; composed of modular pillows.
This is a full view of Light Resting in Clouds, a soft spatial piece composed of modular pillows inspired by the form and flow of sunlight beams. The arrangement mimics how light rests and spreads across space, offering both physical and emotional support. Each pillow is individually designed and can be reassembled into different furniture layouts, adapting to various interior needs. The work explores softness, modularity, and poetic expression through subtle layering of light and color.
A collage of textile samples and finished products by Siri Chen, showcasing her MA research on knitted structures, material translucency, gradient color, and three-dimensional fabric effects.
A collage of textile samples and finished products by Siri Chen, showcasing her MA research on knitted structures, material translucency, gradient color, and three-dimensional fabric effects.
A collection of textile samples from Siri Chen’s MA project, exploring the interplay of color, knitted structures, and material transparency. The works investigate emotional healing through soft textures, layered forms, and light-responsive materials.
Light and shadow intertwine as layered semi-transparent knitted fabrics flow like ripples on water. The translucent structure creates rich color layers, blurring the boundaries of the space. Pure transparent and semi-transparent knitted materials craft a dreamy atmosphere of light and shadow. Through the dialogue between light and materials, the work conveys healing and comfort, awakening warmth and tranquility in the soul.
Detailed view of pillows integrating translucent knitted structures with clear sheer textiles to explore light interplay and material contrast.
Textile seating design inspired by light beams; composed of modular pillows.
A collage of textile samples and finished products by Siri Chen, showcasing her MA research on knitted structures, material translucency, gradient color, and three-dimensional fabric effects.

About

 

Siri Chen is a Chinese textile designer supported by the China Scholarship Council (CSC). Her design practice centers on emotional healing through the interplay of color, light, and soft materials, aiming to cultivate a sense of tranquility and warmth amid the fast pace of contemporary life.

Born and raised in Hangzhou, a city renowned for its poetic natural landscapes, she draws profound inspiration from the dynamic interaction between natural light and human emotion. During her MA studies in the Textile programme at the Royal College of Art, she developed her signature project, Light Resting in Clouds, a modular and flexible installation inspired by the shifting reflections of sunlight on water. The installation can be disassembled and reconfigured, allowing users to customize the spatial arrangement according to personal preference. Components include translucent knitted fabric pieces and transparent pillows equipped with magnetic attachments, enabling effortless repositioning and adaptation. Through layered semi-transparent knitted structures and the transmission of light, the piece creates a gentle, enveloping spatial atmosphere that offers viewers a feeling of emotional comfort and serene refuge.

Her design methodology synthesizes digital knitting techniques with artisanal weaving traditions, utilizing transparent and translucent materials to construct a nuanced visual language of light and shadow. Through multisensory engagement, Siri weaves emotional narratives that elevate textiles beyond their materiality, transforming them into conduits of therapeutic and spatial artistry. Her ambition is for her work not only to enhance contemporary interiors aesthetically but also to serve as a source of emotional solace and warmth—providing a sanctuary of calm amid the intensity of urban life.

 

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 >