National Games mascot designer Liu highlights rise of homegrown cultural design

The mascots Xiyangyang and Lerongrong have become instant favorites of the 15th National Games, and lead designer Liu Pingyun told Sports Scene that these mascots symbolize the rise of domestic cultural-creative design over the past decade.

Liu noted a transformation in the industry where local designers now craft beloved visual symbols and intellectual properties, moving away from the reliance on imported concepts.

The designer recalled how the success of mascots like Bing Dwen Dwen opened new avenues, showcasing China's potential in the cultural-creative market.

He explained that Xiyangyang and Lerongrong were designed to resonate with everyday life, infused with "smoky-fire" warmth that connects them to the public.

With more than 2,800 cultural-creative products launched ahead of the Games, Liu believed this approach fosters genuine interaction between cultural products and the public, enhancing their emotional value.