By: Linda Gabriel

In the diverse world we live in, art and design are often seen as two separate tracks. However, for Xiaodong Ma, not only do these two intersect, but they also intertwine and inspire each other. Born in 1991 in Nanjing, China, and now a creative force in Chicago, Xiaodong Ma has carved a unique path in the realms of art and design. His journey is one of cross-cultural exploration, where art and design are not just intersecting paths, but intertwined sources of inspiration. Xiaodong's narrative showcases his relentless pursuit of innovation and self-discovery.


Xiaodong's artistic quest began with a deep curiosity about the natural world's interaction with human creations. His transformative experience at the California College of the Arts, where he completed his MFA, laid the foundation for his artistic and commercial design skills. Here, Xiaodong learned to use art as a language, expressing his unique perspectives and emotions through diverse mediums.

A pivotal moment in Xiaodong's career was sparked by his perceptive observations of ordinary items. His series, 'Re-Formation: Shadow Evolution', originated from the playful manipulation of paper mock-ups from his design projects. The transformation of these simple materials into complex three-dimensional shapes, casting intriguing shadows, led to a breakthrough in his artistic expression.


Following 'Re-Formation', Xiaodong delved deeper into artistic experimentation. His series 'Reformation: Object-Image-Object' reimagined everyday objects as unconventional painting tools, creating textured artworks that challenge viewers' perceptions. These series epitomize Xiaodong's philosophy: art is a dynamic dialogue between the creator, the medium, and the observer.

In the '2e-' project, Xiaodong's industrial design expertise shines through. Drawing on metal electrolysis techniques, he crafts sculptures that echo natural forms like corals and crystals. This innovative approach, blending industrial methods with artistic vision, earned the '2e-' series the 2023 MUSE Design Award Platinum.


Xiaodong believes in the limitless inspiration life offers. From childhood memories like playing with glow sticks, which influenced his 'Re-formation: The Color and Texture of Music' series, to the Japanese Kintsugi art inspiring his 'Repairing Society: A Nostalgia Future' series, his work is a testament to the power of personal experiences in artistic creation.

Xiaodong's career is a blend of artistic exploration and practical design. His role as a senior industrial designer at SRAM's road bike headquarters allows him to apply his rational, engineering-oriented design philosophy, while his artistic pursuits challenge conventional views and evoke deep reflection.

Xiaodong's contributions to both art and design have not gone unnoticed. His designs have garnered international acclaim, receiving awards like the MUSE Design Award Platinum and the Red Dot Design Award. His artworks, displayed globally, reflect a fusion of cultural influences and innovative techniques.


Xiaodong Ma's story is a testament to the transformative power of combining art and design. His works are more than just visually stunning; they are a deep contemplation of life and a constant exploration of new creative territories. In Xiaodong, we find an artist and designer who is unceasingly curious and relentlessly innovative, pushing the boundaries of what art and design can achieve.