We recently connected with Leyi (Sandy) Chen and have shared our conversation below.

Leyi (Sandy), thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?

I’ve known I wanted to be a designer since childhood. My grandmother had a burgundy red velvet cloth that covered her mahjong table, and I was obsessed with it. I loved the softness, the deep color, and the way it draped. I would pull it off the table, wrapping it around myself as a gown, a superhero cape, or a royal robe, completely mesmerized by how it moved.

That simple piece of fabric sparked my love for materiality and form. Even as a child, I was drawn to the way fabric could transform and tell a story. That fascination never left me, shaping my passion for design and pushing me to create pieces that evoke emotion, movement, and imagination.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I am a designer who draws inspiration from the raw beauty of nature, the mystique of spiritual elements, and the enchanting world of mythical creatures like fairies and monsters. My design style blends elegance with organic forms, infused with a touch of distressed aesthetics that highlight materiality. I believe texture, form, and the essence of materials play a crucial role in storytelling, giving each piece a deeper meaning beyond its visual appeal. In my work, I constantly find myself balancing refinement and imperfection, creating designs that feel both ethereal and grounded.

This year, I am launching Rabies Dog, a handmade jewelry brand rooted in the principles of slow fashion. Each piece is crafted by me, one of a kind, and produced on demand using ethically sourced materials. I believe fashion should not be fleeting but cherished and meaningful. By prioritizing craftsmanship and sustainability, Rabies Dog fosters a deeper connection between the wearer and the jewelry, ensuring that each piece is not just an accessory but a lasting symbol of artistry and individuality. Here’s the link to our website. https://therabiesdog.com

At Rabies Dog, we use materials such as freshwater pearls, seashells, and glass to create a whimsical, fantasy-inspired world filled with joy and positive energy. Our customers are those who embrace a playful yet edgy aesthetic, appreciating craftsmanship and designs that take time to create. I believe slow fashion is the future, as more people seek quality over quantity, investing in pieces that will stay with them for a lifetime.

As part of a young designer generation, my education at Parsons has given me insight into the “norms” of the fashion industry and the challenges many have fought to change. I want to be on the side of slowing the industry down—taking the time to create responsibly, ensuring that every product is made with intention, care, and respect for both craftsmanship and sustainability.

In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?

I believe that stronger legal protections for artists’ intellectual property are essential to fostering a sustainable creative industry. Too often, I’ve seen artists lose their creations to mass replication, whether through fast fashion, counterfeit markets, or unauthorized reproductions. Without proper enforcement of copyright and design rights, original creators are left vulnerable, and their work is devalued. Implementing better laws and stricter enforcement can help artists retain control over their work and ensure they are fairly compensated for their creativity.

Beyond legal protections, society needs to shift its perception of art and design as something valuable rather than disposable. Many people overlook the effort, research, and craftsmanship that go into creating a piece of art or design. When creative work is respected and recognized for its significance, it encourages a healthier, more thriving industry. Education plays a crucial role in this—teaching people from a young age about the importance of originality, the impact of art, and the ethical implications of copying or undervaluing creative labor.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

Art is one of the most powerful forms of self-expression, and for me, the most rewarding part of being an artist is the ability to communicate beyond words. Through my designs and creative works, I can share emotions, ideas, and narratives with people who may not speak the same language or come from the same background. Art has the unique ability to transcend barriers, allowing for a deep and personal connection between the creator and the viewer. That ability to evoke emotions and spark inspiration in others is incredibly fulfilling.

Another rewarding aspect is seeing how people interact with and interpret my work. Art is not just about creating something visually appealing—it’s about crafting an experience, a story, or a feeling that resonates with others. When someone finds meaning in my work, whether it’s a piece of jewelry, fashion, or an installation, it reinforces the idea that creativity has the power to influence, heal, and inspire. Knowing that something I’ve made can hold sentimental value for someone else is a beautiful and motivating experience.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.sandychenofficial.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sandychenshandi?igsh=Z29nNWZ3anV4N283&utm_source=qr
• Other: Rabies Dog (Jewelry Brand): https://therabiesdog.com

Image Credits

P1: Sandy Chen, Susan Su, Katherine Ma, Jianqiao Lu
P2: Amelia Hammond, Sandy Chen, Katherine Ma.
P3: Dennis Wang, Runhua Chen, Hanyu, Joy Qiu, Xin Gu, Sandy Chen
P4: Zixuan Wang, Sandy Chen
P5: Brianna He, Katherine Ma, Sandy Chen, Joy Qiu
P6: Sandy Chen, Katherine Ma