At the 15th National Games, held earlier this month in the Chinese mainland, mascots Xiyangyang and Lerongrong have become instant fan favorites.
Lead designer Liu Pingyun told Sports Scene that these characters symbolize the rise of domestic cultural design over the past decade. "We’re seeing local creators take the lead, crafting beloved visual symbols and original intellectual properties," he said.
Industry veteran Liu recalled how the success of Bing Dwen Dwen opened new avenues for homegrown concepts, showcasing the Chinese mainland’s potential in the cultural-creative market.
The duo were designed to resonate with everyday life, infused with a smoky-fire warmth that connects them to the public and evokes a sense of shared community.
With more than 2,800 cultural-creative products launched ahead of the Games, Liu believes this approach fosters genuine interaction between cultural products and the public, boosting emotional value and supporting local economies.
For young global citizens and creative entrepreneurs, this moment is a case study in how storytelling and data-driven insights can make cultural design relatable and commercially viable on a global scale.
As the Games continue to draw attention, designers and thought leaders alike are watching closely—this wave of homegrown creativity could set trends for sustainable cultural industries worldwide.
Reference(s):
National Games mascot designer notes rise of homegrown cultural design
cgtn.com
