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HongJi Yan's Flexible LED Screens Turn Arca into a Moving Image in AnOther Magazine

publication · 2026-09-10

HongJi Yan, a 23-year-old designer hailing from Central Saint Martins, developed adaptable LED displays showcased by Arca in the Autumn/Winter 2026 edition of AnOther Magazine. Captured by Anders Edström and styled by Akeem Smith, Arca dons one screen as a skirt and another as a headpiece. These creations were commissioned by Smith for the livestream debut of Arca's album, XXXXX, held in an abandoned factory in Barcelona. The design resembles an orthopedic brace, crafted from heat-mouldable thermoplastic. Inspired by Beijing's delivery drivers and livestreamers, HongJi's journey began in 2023 following industry placements. Smith reached out in March for a Madonna project, leading to Arca's request for tailored screens. HongJi is also establishing a studio with friends.

Key facts

  • HongJi Yan is a 23-year-old designer who graduated from Central Saint Martins' BA Fashion Design: Womenswear one year ago.
  • Arca wears HongJi Yan's flexible LED screens in the Autumn/Winter 2026 issue of AnOther Magazine, photographed by Anders Edström and styled by Akeem Smith.
  • The screens were first commissioned by Akeem Smith for the livestream premiere of Arca's album XXXXX, broadcast from an abandoned factory in Barcelona at night.
  • Each screen is constructed with heat-mouldable medical thermoplastic, Velcro, and mesh, resembling an orthopaedic brace.
  • HongJi's graduate collection included a screen that nearly swallowed its wearer to the knees.
  • The concept was inspired by Beijing delivery drivers and livestreamers, whom HongJi sees as hyper-visible yet forgettable.
  • Smith first contacted HongJi in March for Confessions II, The Film, a project with Madonna's team; the look was filmed but did not make the final cut.
  • Arca has since invited HongJi to DM her with new ideas, and he is setting up a studio with two friends.

Entities

Artists

  • HongJi Yan
  • Arca
  • Anders Edström
  • Akeem Smith
  • Madonna

Institutions

Locations

  • Beijing
  • China
  • Barcelona
  • Spain

Sources