Monica Yan’s innovative fabric jewellery series, “Between People,” is gaining international attention as it highlights the intersection of traditional Pankou craft and contemporary culture. Yan, the founder of CQ London, is a cross-cultural practitioner who has woven elements of Chinese intangible heritage into this series, exploring the imprints of human relationships on the body and imagination. The significance of this work is now being recognized on both academic and public platforms in London and Edinburgh.
In April 2026, Yan was invited to Queen Mary University of London to deliver a guest lecture. This marked a pioneering moment as she introduced contemporary methods of Chinese intangible cultural heritage to students globally, not merely as content but as a methodological approach. Following this, the series will feature at the FIVE LEAF Conference on Law and Aesthetics from June 1-2, 2026, at the same university. This conference gathers experts worldwide from fields such as fashion, film, and architecture, providing a unique opportunity for “Between People” to be showcased in an academic context. The works will also be cataloged for potential publication by Routledge, further cementing their academic contributions as a reflective body of work.
In August 2026, Yan’s role as curator for the Intangible Cultural Heritage section during Chinese Culture Week at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe will further elevate the series. The festival, known as the largest arts festival globally, will present Chinese intangible heritage not just as an exhibition but within a dynamic public arts forum. This inclusion signifies a substantial shift in how such heritage is perceived, encouraging dialogue with global contemporary practices.
Monica Yan’s background is rooted in extensive cross-cultural experience, holding dual master’s degrees from University College London and the University of Westminster. Her career initially spanned European and Asian high-end industries, where she worked in sectors including finance, law, and diplomacy. Since 2016, she has focused on integrating Chinese aesthetics into Western life, aiming to create meaningful emotional connections rather than mere cultural spectacles.
CQ London, her qipao culture brand, has notably appeared at events like London Fashion Week and London Craft Week since 2024. It remains the only Chinese qipao brand to participate across these platforms consistently. Yan’s dedication to bridging cultural divides through art and design continues to shape her contributions to both the academic and public spheres.
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