KOVA is a collaborative lab infused with the concept of the “mobile cabinet”, striving to curate dynamic creative expressions through wearable mediums. Founded by Liz Zhu Shichun, KOVA seeks to bridge the gap between audiences and creators by offering more accessible art productions and events.
What inspired you to start your own creative business?
My drive to integrate design and curatorial practice inspired me to start my own creative business. I recognized a gap between creative communities and the public, one that requires more interaction and communication to enable meaningful exchange.
I believe that by recontextualizing and refabricating traditional notions of “high art” into wearable, affordable, and practical formats, we can make artistic ideas more accessible. My goal is to serve as a bridge between these worlds, fostering dialogue and shared understanding through design.
Grass Print X Apron
The Grass Print X Apron is a symbol of both labor and creativity.
What is your favourite aspect of running your own business?
What I enjoy most is building meaningful connections, both through artistic collaborations and personal relationships. We have come to realise that great collaborations and exceptional designs often emerge from a deep and mutual understanding between creators. This process goes beyond the traditional curator-artist or platform-creative dynamic; it’s about cultivating trust, dialogue, and shared vision.
In that sense, our practice is both open and intentional. I take time to nurture well-developed relationships and craft human-centred, insightful products that reflect those bonds.
Does your product have an environmental focus/does it support the circular
economy?
Yes. We have incorporated deadstock Chinese homespun textiles since our first collection of the O1(1) totes and have restocked the series three times, each version combining traditional fabrics with manufacturing scraps. Many of our other products also make use of collected offcuts and surplus materials from various sources.
My awareness of the circular economy first developed during a sustainability project in my
second year at the University of the Arts London, and that foundation continues to shape my
work today.
Dow.D.P, the upcycling clothing line affiliated with KOVA, reflects this ethos. Each
one-of-a-kind garment is personally reworked by me. I draw inspiration from the existing
materials themselves, incorporating my artistic expression and ongoing research into every
piece.
The ‘Roasted Red Book’ Pouch
The ‘Roasted Red Book’ pouch is crafted from Indian vintage Kantha quilted scraps.
What is the USP (unique selling point) for your products?
Our unique selling point lies in our business model itself. We follow an entrepreneurial and collaborative approach that blurs the boundaries between art, design, and everyday life. Rather than producing conventional merchandise, we co-create affordable, wearable artworks through ongoing collaborations with artists.
We prioritise physical interaction over consumerist marketing strategies. Art book fairs, markets, workshops and exhibitions are our primary spaces for engagement. Here we build meaningful connections with audiences by sharing the stories, concepts, and processes behind each piece. This hands-on, narrative-driven model creates a more personal and lasting relationship with our community.
Does your work have a social impact?
Our work often stems from in-depth research and engages with pressing social topics including urban development, the impact of the pandemic, self-publishing challenges, and dilemmas in digital art. These are collective concerns that both our collaborators and audiences can resonate and empathize with.
By addressing these issues through creative expression and personal storytelling, we help individuals connect with one another and with broader cultural narratives. This process fosters ongoing positive impact, not only in their personal lives but also in their creative careers.
Oversized Mirror Tote
The Oversized Mirror Tote bag is big enough to carry all your essentials and more.
What are your hopes for the future of KOVA?
We aim to continue cultivating collaborative expertise and nurturing our community through deeper and more meaningful connections. We plan to host regular in-person events to facilitate creative exchange. Additionally, we hope to expand our partnerships to include institutions such as galleries, art shops, bookstores, and schools. We would provide support in developing unique products and curating events with a fresh and thoughtful perspective.
Kova is part of not just a shop‘s selected new designers and makers for 2025.
Each year, not just a shop holds an Open Call for new products from UAL students and alumni. All products and makers are selected by a panel from various disciplines and backgrounds.
This year, 13 new makers were chosen as our new cohort, making it one of our most successful years yet. Our range of practical yet stylish homeware, jewellery and accessories are sure to excite and enhance your everyday style and experience.
Learn more about this years selection of new makers and products.