Tina (Yiwei) Xu is an illustrator with a strong interest in mythology, visual storytelling, and contemporary women’s issues. Her work often weaves together imagined narratives and real-world themes, using symbolism and stylised visuals to provoke thought and emotional connection.

In her graduation project, she examines how internet culture in China shapes facial aesthetics, particularly through the lens of beauty standards and their growing homogenisation. Told through three visual perspectives, from close-up to distant, the project explores the cultural and societal forces that drive conformity in appearance within Chinese and broader Asian contexts.

Xu has also illustrated stories from Chinese mythology, including the tale of Shennong, the God of Grains, who discovered how wheat could be cultivated into the five staple crops. Her storytelling often employs exaggeration and surrealism, encouraging viewers to reflect critically while remaining visually engaging and accessible.

Her style adapts according to the subject matter, but clarity of message remains central to her work. Whether depicting ancient myths or modern narratives, Xu aims to communicate layered meanings in a way that resonates with a wide audience. Her illustrations invite viewers to pause, interpret, and uncover the deeper messages embedded in each image.