London-based Chinese artist Yilun Li, known as Sasa, transforms everyday disposable materials like recycled plastics and fishing line into detailed sculptural forms that are crafted, and shaped with a heat gun into intricate small-scale sculptural pieces to be experienced as what she terms wearable art. Originally studying design and fashion, Sasa has since developed an artistic practice combining her commitment to the use of sustainable materials, with a strong cross disciplinary interest in the creative practices of artists whose work pushes the boundaries of their materials and forms, particularly the Korean, Los Angeles-based artist Sojin Oh who creates ‘otherworldly, three-dimensional manicures’ and the Japanese, NYC based artist Tomoya Nakagawa.
‘Wonderland’ (2024) is a collection of wearable art where the artist has repurposed materials to create each work. These small translucent sculptural forms have intricate biomorphic shapes – some seem to be gelatinous marine organisms, others resemble parts of plants, some surrounded by dew drops. Although these are static objects, they could represent stills of morphing organisms whirling and whipping through sea waters or through the air. They all seem to capture a moment in the process of their individual transformations. There is also a sense of the ethereal in some, as if we are glimpsing the trace of something like a mythological water sprite whizzing past. Another could serve as a contemporary talisman with dynamic powers – ideally, good luck.
The artist challenges conventional understanding of her chosen materials and provokes ideas of possibilities and repurposing. As she has reflected in her own words, ‘By reworking recycled plastics and fishing lines, I wanted to demonstrate how overlooked, everyday objects can become vessels of artistic expression. The handcrafting process was central to the work, embodying my intention to give these materials new life and purpose, while raising awareness of environmental responsibility.’
